



,". ^^^rS oV^^^^»"" ^^1.^^ ^^M^.:. '^At<^ o'^J^J^^a--. '^oV^ 



'vi-O^ 








* ^' 



^\^ 









°"'%/-o >^\c:^/"^^ /..is^>>o ,/\y:^%\, '°^ 





"hv 




v^o^ 



' ■• * ' -^^ 'V * o « o - O, 




^^dy' ^»^.'. "-^^.^ oV^^^^^l^i'- ^ov^ :^m^\ '-n^-o^ 














V-^' 



"^'=,' 





















< o 




if ^m 




v-G* 




'bV 








w .^^ 



^-..<i^' 



.^^-"r^. 





"^9- 

.A^-^^ 








-*• 



^^pS- 



.A 



V^, 




-/ /'\^^-° ■/"'-^^ ■°"^^-" /\ •-^•- /% V..-. , 






0^ 



■". %v-' :^-- Vo.^ ,v^v, -^.„/ , 













vO' 












. ^^m^ j^^ ^Wi^^ J^\ 












<*• •*■ 



ctgP 



/ 




uburbs 



^/f^ 



OF 




incinnati 



SKETCHES 



H!STOB]€Ai Mm DES£RIPTI¥I 



BY. 



J^^ 



SIDNEY DMVIAXWELL. 




CINCINNATI: 

Geo. E. Stevens & Co, 

1870. 



. C 5 M Lf Q, 



Entered according to Act of Congress in the year 1870, by 

SIDNEY D. MAXWELL, 

In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States for the Southern 
District of Ohio. 



PRE FAC E. 



fHE matter contained in all liiit the concluding chapter of these 
sketches appeared substantially in the Cincinnati Daily Gazette, 
during the years 1868-9. The original papers were prepared by 
the author with much care ; and at the time of their appearance, 
as well as since, many desires were expressed for their publication in a more 
enduring form. 

Since the original sketches were ^VTitten, great changes have occurred in 
the surroundings then considered by the extension of the city limits. On 
the twenty-eighth of February, 1870, the final transcripts and other papers 
were transmitted to the Secretary of State and the Recorder of Hamilton 
county for the annexation of all of Storrs township with the exception of the 
territory embraced within the incorporated viUage of Riverside. On the 
same day similar steps were taken for the annexation of the territory in 
Spencer township, lying between the eastern boundary of Cincinnati and the 
western boundary of the village of Columbia, including the village of 
Pendleton. The last papers for the annexation of Walnut Hills, ^'^ernon- 
village, Blount Auburn and Corryville, were transmitted on the twelfth day 
of March. On the ninth day of May the final documents were filed for the 
annexation of the precincts of Lick Run and Camp Washington, in Mill- 
creek township, embracing Camp Washington, Clifton Hights, Fairmount, 
]Mount Harrison, Barrsville, Forbusville, Spring Garden, and St. Peter's, 



ui (p-refouGe. 

and for additional territory in Spencer township, including many of the 
most valuable improvements in East Walnut Hills. 

Then, under the act of the legislature of AprU the sixteenth, an election 
was held on the sixteenth of May, at which the question was submitted of 
annexing territory comprising about twenty-seven square miles, and embrac- 
ing Clifton, Avondale, Woodburn, Columbia, Cumminsville, St. Bernard, 
Sj)ring Grove or Winton Place, Riverside, and other suburbs. The 
vote stood: For annexation, eleven hundred and twenty-five; against, 
ten hundred and eighty-two. The constitutionality of the act under which 
the election was held, as well as the legality of the election, has been ques- 
tioned by some, and it may be tested in the courts. If not affected by 
judicial action, the territory annexed this year will be nearly thirty-nine sec- 
tions, and the entire city embrace an area of about forty-five square miles, 
the length being nine miles and the greatest width seven miles. 

The desirableness of preserving the history of these localities, famous 
n()^v, Init soon to become merged into the common history of a great city, 
moved the writer, more than any thing else, to finally give encouragement 
to those who desired the publication of this volume. 

The original papers have been carefully revised, — in many particulars 
rewritten, — and such changes made as will bring the history and description 
of the places to the month of April, 1870. To the original matter have 
been added a description of Eden Park, to be formally opened on the 
fourth day of this month, and a concluding chapter, embracing brief histor- 
ical allusions to and short mentions of other suburbs and surrounding vil- 
lages. The latter part was an after-thought, not having been anticipated 
when the publication of the original articles in this form was projected. 
While this is so much more than was promised when the volume was 
announced, the author cherishes the expectation that it will be regarded a 
valuable addition to the original papers. 

SIDNEY D. MAXWELL. 

Cincinnati, 0.,Julij 1, 1870. 



f'Oj^T'^J^T? 



Introduction, ........ q 

Avondale, ........ \\ 

Clifton, - 27 

College Hill, -------- 53 

East Walnut Hills, - - - - - - - 66 

Glendale, ---...-. jq 

Mt. Auburn, - .---... -lOO 

Corryville, --...... 129 

Walnut Hills, -.--...- 133 

Eden Park, --.-._.. igi 

Woodburn, --------- 156 

Colunibia, ----..-. 1Q7 

Cuniniinsville, ----..-. \qq 

Kentucky Suburbs, ------- 173 

Cincinnati, Han:iilton and Dayton Railroad, - - - 177 

Little Miami Railroad, ------ 179 

Indianapolis, Cincinnati and Lafayette Railroad, - - ISO 

Marietta and Cincinnati Railroad, - - - - 1S2 

Ohio and Mississippi Railroad, ... - - 133 

Other Suburbs, ..-.-.. i84 



|.^TPvQp-Vi:TOT, 



ra 



[HE SUBURBS of Cincinnati are its crowning glory. Tlie city, 
jJ^ proper, has much to attract the attention of the stranger. Its 

_^_^ beautiful river is spanned by a suspension bridge which, in some 
respects, is without an equal. It possesses business houses of imposing 
appearance and unusual architectural beauty ; maiuifactories which arc 
costly and extensive ; tasteful homes that line its thoroughfares ; churches, 
cathedrals and temples upon which devotion has poured out its treasures ; 
superb edifices that have been provided for the helpless, the afflicted and the 
erring, and scores of school buildings dedicated to the education of the 
youth. These are enough to make a city noted; but they are not the 
chief attraction of the i)\ace. The environs of Cincinnati are its distinguish- 
ing beauty. They present as striking a combination of the picturesque and 
the accessible as can be foinid in the world ; and the topographical features 
are such as to peculiarly favor, in the development of the landscape, the 
most artistic j^lans. The eligible locations are almost innumerable, and 
their capacity for improvement unlimited. 

For a long time the city was confined to the great basin made by the 
surrounding hills. These bold elevations seemed impassable barriers, and 
as business and dwellings crowded up and clung to the steep hill-sides, 
there were few who anticipated the time when these beetling clifts ^vould 
be scaled; when population, like a victorious army, having surmounted 
2 



10 IntTod'LLGtoTy . 



Nature's parapets, would spread over the swelling lands, and build cottages 
and palaces, churches and school-houses, and set itself to the work of con- 
verting a rough, broken country into a region of such loveliness, that the 
most favored might covet there a home. 

But at length little communities about the city began to spring up. 
Some citizen bolder than the rest, and perhaj)s better able to see what was to 
follow from the necessity of the case, would take a position a little farther 
out than his neighbor, to soon find others gathering about him, who needed 
but a leader to conduct them from the maelstrom of business which was 
whirling below, and the dust and smoke and heat inseparable from a great 
(iity. Mt. Auburn, Clifton, Walnut Hills, Glendale, Avondale, and other 
villages came into existence, and have increased from a few families to 
thousands of inhabitants, and yet the great tide that is to set into these 
suburban places has only just begun. People have but awakened to the 
fact that the high hills and deep ravines that surround Cincinnati are to 
become its most attractive features. Facilities for reaching them will multi- 
ply, population increase, churches grow up, schools be established, the 
roughest lands be redeemed, and thus improvement follow improvement, 
until Cincinnati wiU have, if it has not already, the most beautiful suburbs 
of any city in America. 



^A^Y'Qj^pc^LE 



m 



HE whole face of the country immediately north of the city i? 
becoming dotted with residences, which make up rather one large 

rf^^^ subiu'b than many small ones. From a prominent position on Mt. 

^G) Auburn or at Avondale, one looks out over an almost continuous 
settlement of beautiful homes. Some stand out, to be sure, more promi- 
nently than others, but it is rather because they occupy the crests of the 
weaves of land that sweep away in beauty as far as the eye can distinguish, 
than because they belong to diffei-ent villages. It can not justly be said 
that any one particular locality is superior to the others in its general 
features. Their accessibility is about the same, their altitude alike, their 
toj)Ography similar. In each, one finds something to admire — too much, 
indeed, to indulge in invidious comparisons. It is true, there is less ine- 
quality of surface in Avondale than in some other places, but the face of 
the country partakes of the features that are common to all the districts 
about Cincinnati. Owing to its remoteness, neither the river nor the city 
can be seen, but to compensate for this, there is variety witliout brokenness, 
and the serenity and sweetness of the country, without a single reminder 
of the closeness and turmoil of the crowded streets of the city. 

Avondale is a few' degrees east of north from the court-house in Cincin- 
nati, and due north from the Garden of Eden. Its southern Ijoundary is 
said to be two miles from the corner of Main and Court streets, but it is 



12 Bu^hiMi^hs of C^Tboinncbtz . 

probalily a little farther by the Lebanon turnj)ike, which is deflected from 
a right line by the hills between which it passes in reaching the village. 
It has an area of al)out eight hundred acres, embracing all of section 
nine and the north-west part of section eight, which lies immediately south. 

The former section was conveyed by John Cleves Symmes to Samuel 
Eobinson, in 1795. In the year following, Mr. Robinson conveyed three 
hundred acres of the north-east part of his purchase to John Hardin. One 
year later, jMr. Robinson conveyed one hundred aud twenty acres in the 
south-west part of the section, comprising lands principally west of what is 
now Main avenue, to William McMillan, a prominent citizen and lawyer 
of Cincinnati, whose remains for more than a half centur}^ reposed in one 
of tlie beautiful spots of that village. In 1798, the tract north of the 
McMillan 2)urchase, and west of that conveyed to Mr. Hardin, passed to 
John Hunt. The south-east part being shortly afterward acquired by Wil- 
liam Woodward, the entire section passed from Mr. Robinson, and the 
Avork of subdivision began, which has continued up to the present time, 
and which will not cease until the district becomes jjart of Cincinnati itself. 

Mr. Hardin, in 1802, sold one hundred and twenty-two acres on the 
south of his purchase to William McMillan, who thus came into possession of 
lands north-east of his former tract. Later in the century, Jonathan 
Dayton acquired one hundred and six acres in the north-eastern part of 
the section. This he sold to his father, Elias Dayton, by whose death he 
again came into possession of a portion as one of his heirs. Such of these 
lands as descended to Jonathan Dayton, comprising those on both sides of 
the Lebanon turnpike (now Main avenue), but principally to the east of 
that road, were subdivided, in November, 1846, by Jonathan Bartlett, the 
administrator of the Dayton estate. The subdivision is designated on the 
records, "Plat of house lots at Clinton, three miles from Cincinnati." 
Though small tracts of land had been sold previously to various parties, 
this was the first subdivision in what is now Avondale. 

But a few years after the McMillan purchase, to which allusion has been 
made, Mr. McMillan died, disposing by will of these lands, which he denomi- 



nated the " Home Plantation." They were subsequently purchased of the 
devii^ees, by Mr. Corry, to who^e heirs they descended. Two year? after 
the Clinton or Dayton subdivision, James A. Corry made a subdivision in 
the south-west })art of tlio section known us "Locust Grove" sulxlivision, 
and not far from the same time, another subdivision of the same name was 
made by Spencer and Corry, In 1852, Samuel Cloon, who had ac(]uired 
considerable land in this locality, made a comprehensive subdivision, 
embracing about one hundred and fifty acres, lying on both sides of the 
turnpike. This included the "Clinton" subdivision, to the ](jts of which 
he affixed numbers instead of letters, by which they had been previously 
designated. The location of this subdivision will be better understood bv 
stating that it includes the residence of Miles Greenwood, 

Of the Corry lands, lying to the north and right of those sul)dividcd up 
to the period named, and south of those embraced in the Cloon subdivision, 
forty-five acres were conveyed by James A. Corry to the Cincinnati and 
Chicago Railroad Company, and were subdivided in 1854. The survey 
necessary to tliis subdivision was made by a young engineer, named H. C. 
Freeman, who, on account of some pleasant associations, gave it the name 
of " Avondalo Subdivision." Whether this was the origin of the present 
name of the village is a mooted question. While some claim that this sug- 
gested the name, others are inclined to award that honor to ^Frs. S. H. 
Burton. At any rate, the residents of that locality were not slow to recog- 
nize the superior beauty of this to Clintonville, by which the place had 
been knoA\Ti, and by common consent they adopted the name for the future 
village. If there is any thing in a name, Avondale will certain) \- not lose 
in this regard by comparison witli any of the suburbs of the city. 

Though the Clinton subdivision occurred in 1846, still the improvements 
which fi)llowed were not the first made by persons from Cincinnati. As 
early as 1833, Luke Kendall purchased of j\[r. Corry six acres of land, 
and having subsequently acquired ten acres additional, erected, in 1835, the 
brick residence, Avhich every person familiar with the Lebanon turnpike 
and its early history, remembers well. For fifteen years it has been the 



14 S-ubhiMThs of CzizGzi-ziza^ti. 

residence of W. F. Irwin, who has made many changes in the property ; 
but the original appearance externally has been so well preserved, that every 
traveler will recognize it as tlie outpost of Cincinnati residences thirty years 
ago. As showing the changes that have taken place in the price of land 
since that time, it may be remarked that Mr. Kendall purchased this for 
$100 per acre. The house cost $5,000, a price which, like that of the land, 
Avas considered then an extraordinary outlay for a purpose of this kind. 

In 1836, David B. Bassett, the partner of Mr. Kendall, erected the brick 
edifice immediately south of the place of the latter. He had removed 
from Cincinnati into a small cabin upon the land, in the spring of 1834, 
and may thus be considered one of the pioneers among those who made 
valuable improvements, and permanently removed to Avondale to make it 
a place of residence, while doing business in Cincinnati. Then it was con- 
sidered in the country. These buildings W'ere spoken of as being three 
miles from Cincinnati. They were reached shortly after having ascended 
the long Four-Mile Hill, then covered with a forest so thick that at night 
travelers avoided its darkness, lest they should be attacked by robbers who 
found this a hiding-place. Now, when one discovers these forests removed, 
and cattle grazing upon the green hill-sides, and sees in all directions hand- 
some dwellings, numbered by hundreds, surrounded by shrubbery and 
flowers, and approached by beautiful drives, and witnesses the stream of 
carriages that, morning and night, carry business men from and to their 
delightful homes, it seems as if forest and field had been touched by some 
magic hand. 

Mr. Kendall remained in this property until 1851, about which time it 
passed into the hands of Captain Davis, who retained it a short time and 
sold to Henry Pike. In 1852, W. F. Irwin came into possession of the 
property and removed to it ; at once entering upon a course of improve- 
ment which greatly increased both its beauty and value. Mr. Pike, at the 
same time, Avas erecting four beautiful cottages, immediately north of the 
premises Avhich ]Mr. Irwin acquired, and some additional improvements 
had been made in other places. Thus Avondale entered upon the sys- 



tern of improvement wliicli has made it one of the beautiful subui'bs of 
Cincinnati. 

One by one persons came to this })lace and purchased improved property 
or erected houses, until it attained its present splendid position. It has 
been a steady, healthful gi-owtli, which has been sustained because supported 
by substantial citizens who came to permanently reside. 

Avondale became an incorporated \^llage for general purposes about six 
years ago. The matter had been agitated a number of years. The citizens 
desired to pi-otect themselves from stock running at large, to improve their 
streets, and enforce order. This they could not effectually do Avithout an 
incorporation. Enough opposition was manifested to the project to prevent 
its consummation for a considerable time, but this was ultimately overcome, 
much to the promotion of the general good. Their first JNIayor was A. R. 
Dutton, who served two years. 

AVENUES. 

The principal thoroughfare of Avondale is Main avenue, really the Leb- 
anon turnpike, which runs diagonally through the territory embraced 
witliin the corporate limits. Along this the first improvements were made. 
The avenue is macadamized, and for the greater part of the distance has, on 
one or both sides, good sidewalks constructed of stone or wood. Inter- 
secting this at right angles, or nearly so, are two avenues — Rockdale and 
Forest. They run east and west, parallel Avith each other, and terminate 
on the east in Main avenue. These avenues are new, sixt}' feet wide, and 
well macadamized. 

Leaving Rockdale avenue and running northwardly, is Washington 
avenue, somewhat narrower than the others, but well macadamized. On 
one side of this avenue, throughout the entire length, as weU as on Rockdale 
and Forest avenues, is a plank sidewalk aliout four feet wide. West of the 
intersection of AVashington avenue with Rockdale, a new street, called 
Harvey avenue, is open to Shillito street, the latter running east and 
west near the southern limit of the village. The western boundary of 



16 Szihzoi-hs of OiizGiizTzcitz. 

Avondale is the Carthage road, which is also the eastern line of Clifton. 
Still forther west is Burnet avenue, but partially opened, running parallel 
with Harvey avenue, which intervenes between it and Main avenue. 
Clinton is a short avenue running east from Main avenue. Upon it, as yet, 
there has been but little improvement. Glenwood avenue is a well macadam- 
ized street running east from Main avenue, upon which there are several 
good dwellings recently erected. Dennis and Dufheld streets, in the upper 
part of the village, leave Main avenue at different points and sweep around 
until they meet each other and form Cloon street that runs westerly to 
Washington avenue. Eidgway street and Linden avenue, in the southern 
part — the former creeping around a ravine to the east of Main avenue and 
the latter climbing the elevation between ]\Iain and Harvey avenues — are 
l)oth of them ^vell improved. 

In addition to tlicse are several streets, which are more or less improved, 
and ujDou Avhich dwellings have, at remote points, been erected. Spring 
street is one which leaves Main avenue a sliort distance beyond the toll- 
gate ; and Mound street, another, enters Main avenue from the west, about 
the center of the village. 

The northern boundary of the village is but a short distance south of the 
summit of the Four-Mile Hill, there intervening a part of the Rose Hill 
Farm, recently subdivided and sold in lots of a few acres each. In the 
direction of Cincinnati, the first improvements are on the east of Main 
avenue. Here Robert Mitchell erected, on lots each of about seven acres, 
two capacious brick d\vellings with Mansard roofs, that have since become 
the property of his sons-in-law, A. J. Redway and S. R. Burton. These are 
of the Italian villa style, with roomy verandas both in the front and rear, 
and are among the best residences of this suburb. Behind the houses is a 
vigorous growth of oi'iginal forest trees, while in front a broad lawn declines 
to the avenue, and is intersected by circular graveled drives, by which the 
dwellings are approached. These are well removed from the avenue and 
present a good appearance. Next on the same side is the residence of 
William H. Dominick, built about eight years ago. The building is brick, 



-ji'vondoS'LG. 17 



J- 



with veranda on entire south and south half of front, and is situated on 
ground that gently swells into a beautiful location. Upon his lot of eight 
acres, trees are favorably grouped, and through them the residence, which is 
remote from the avenue, is reached by a circular drive. It is a })]ace of 
much simple beauty. 

Immediately south of Mr. Dominick's is the home of William 8ellew. Tlie 
building has been erected about twelve years. It is a square edifice, A\itli a 
light iron veranda along the front. His grounds have on them a few forest 
trees and a profusion of evergreens and shrubbery, which are very handsome. 
The land declines from the road to within a few hiuulred feet of the house, 
where, in a considerable depression, there are a spring of pure water and a 
miniature lake. Thence it rises very rapidl}- until reaching the position occu- 
pied by the dwelling, wliich is a very desirable one. Mr. Sellew's premises 
are among the most attractive in the tillage. 

Next is the E. G. Leonard property, of four acres, and an excellent blue 
limestone residence. The house was built about nine years ago, and presents 
a very fine appearance. The grand old forest trees and the beautiful situa- 
tion combine with the dignified looking edifice to give these premises uiuisual 
attraction. 

S. H. Burton has a handsome dwelling, with a veranda embracing three 
sides of the building. The grounds are thicldy shaded, and the lawn 
beautiful. 

A. O. Tyler and Isl. W. Stone have here erected elegant residences on lots 
of about four acres each. 

Seth Evans has about five acres of land and an attractive mansion with 
veranda on three sides, and pleasant surroundings. 

South of Mr. Evans is the residence of A. H. Mitchell, erected last season, 
a two-story brick edifice, mth capacious basement and Mansard roof, and 
as complete in its inside appointments as it is tasteful in its exterior design. 

Not far from the northern boundary of the ^^llage is the former residence of 
James M. Glenn, now occupied by James McKeehan, a massive edifice of 
stately proportions that is quite unlike the architecture of any other building 



18 Suyh-bbThs of CznOZTlTZCLti. 

in the suburbs of Cincinnati. It is constructed of brick, and surmounted by 
a French roof A circular tower that rises from the basement, terminates 
in a pinnacle above and is closely embraced by a circular veranda at the 
base. There are about fifteen acres of ground, a lawn of sui-passing beauty, 
and a location from which is enjoyed a landscape of rare interest. Avondale, 
with its dwellings peering above rich foliage, or resting amid spacious 
grounds, is at the feet of the beholder ; while away to the west and north, 
the MiUcreek valley and highlands beyond furnish quite another, yet no less 
beautiful, prospect. INIr. McKeehan has about him a feast to which nature 
is continually contributing with a la\ash hand. 

On the north of Dennis street are the dwellings of Charles Wells and 
Theodore Royer, erected about seven years ago, the latter upon a lot of an 
acre and a half, thicldy set with shrubbery. 

Oj)posite is the dwelling of Captam Daniel CoUier, erected several years 
ago. He has a lot of about three acres, filled with shrubbeiy, \rith wliich 
his white house is in pleasing contrast. The former residence of Charles E. 
Marshall, recently purchased by James Bugher, on the north-west corner of 
the avenue and Demiis street, is a tasteful cottage, surrounded by a profusion 
of shrubbery, wliich is regarded safe without the protection of a fence of any 
kind. The home of S. AV. Hartshorne, on the west side of the avenue, 
south of Dennis street, is a very pretty one, erected on a good sized lot, about 
ten years ago. 

Immediately south are the premises of Miles Green Avood, which are entered 
through a broad iron gate, the pillars of which are each surmounted by a 
graceful iron eagle. The house, erected in 1847, is a plain two-story one, 
with an iron veranda supported by a floor of white limestone. The grounds, 
consisting of fourteen acres, Avhich rise gently from the avenue to the dwell- 
ing, are filled with shrubbery, and have numerous pieces of iron and marble 
statuary. 

Robert Mitchell, next on the south, has about three acres of land. His 
dwelling is a two-story brick with a French roof and spacious verandas on 
both front and side. It was erected about four years ago, and is one of the 



jluorhdjCble. 19 

many tasteful homes of Avondale. About one-third of his lot is a garden, 
while the remainder is abundantly supplied with fruit and shade trees. The 
grounds are neatly kept, and no fence mars the beauty of the pros^^ect. 

On Duffield street, which passes along the southern boundaiy of Mr. INIitch- 
ell's premises, is the present residence of James ]V[. Glenn, a commodious, 
tAvo-story, brick edifice, erected five years ago. The lot is five acres in extent, 
and the situation quite desirable. 

The residence of John Reid, erected about five years ago, is surrounded 
by groimds well cared for, about ten acres in extent. WiUiam R. Phipps 
has a substantial dwelling, erected about four years ago on a lot of nearly 
seven acres. The edifice is decidedly agreeable in its arcliitectm'e, has a 
veranda looking out to the south-east, and pleasant surroundings. 

Following these successively, are the homes of R. B. Stephenson, Henry 
Van Valkenburg and William W. Andrews, singularly attractive in their ap- 
pearance. The gromids are filled A\dth shrubbery and kept in excellent order. 

Next on the west of the avenue, are the premises of W. F. Ir^Nin, to which 
allusion has been made. jNIr. Irwin has been here since 1852, and has 
made valuable additions to the property. The broad front, and hospitable 
recess remain the same as when the house was occupied by IMr. Kendall. xV 
graveled drive, describing a complete cu-cle, inteiTcnes between the gateway and 
the dweUing, and evergreens and shrubl)ery liave been plentifully dispersed. 
In the rear he has a large garden and fruit trees in abundance. The 
premises, though well known twenty-five j-ears ago, are among the most 
attractive m the \Tllage. 

Adjoining Mr. Irwin's on the south, is the residence of AViUiam P. AVal- 
lace, which we have previously mentioned as tlie Bassett or Caldwell property. 
The building is so well preserved that one woidd scarcely think it dated 
back thirty years. There are about seven acres in the ground that sur- 
round the building. On the same side of the avenue, G. W. B. Cleneay 
has l>uilt an expensive residence. The architecture is (juaint and some- 
what ii'regular. He lias about his buildings spacious and ehgible grounds, 
which he has already highly improved and adorned. 



20 BuyhiLThs of Cz-izGz-nnati' . 

Nearly oj^posite Mr. Cleneay's is tlie residence of Mrs. W. C. INIann. 
A^erandas run quite around the building, and the premises are attractive. 
She has five acres about her dweUing, which are weU set with shade trees, 
the maple and poplar predominating. On the north-west corner of Main 
and Forest avenues, adjoining Mr. Cleneay's on the south, J. A. Pomeroy 
has elegant premises. He has a lot of about one acre and a half, well 
laid off and set in shrubbery, and a tasteful residence with veranda looking 
to the avenue. 

On Glenwood avenue, which is passed on the left coming south, Dr. 
George C. Blackman has a residence, erected three years ago. It is a 
spacious, pleasant-looking home, with verandas covering the whole first-story 
front. A mate to this, the former home of H. H. Gibson, has recently 
passed into the hands of Captain Collier. East of Dr. Blackman's is the 
dwelhng of Dr. I. S. Dodge, erected five years ago, upon a lot of about two 
acres. Nearly opposite Dr. Blackman's, John W. Dale has a dweUing of 
inviting appearance, which is about four years old. Near Mr. Dale's, on the 
south side of the avenue, is the tasteful residence of the Rev. Joseph Gam- 
ble, pastor of the Presbyterian Church ; and in the same locality the pleas- 
ant home of John Roberts. Judge Price has also a handsome dwellmg. 

On the north side of Glenwood avenue is the residence of M. T. Antram, 
a two-story brick edifice with tower and elegant verandas. While the archi- 
tecture of Mr. Antram's is novel, the whole premises are attractive. 

Immediatel}^ adjoining the latter, with a lot extending to Main avenue, is 
the mate to Mr. Antram's residence, now occupied by William Stewart. 

On Forest avenue there is the residence of E. A. Herod, erected three 
years ago ; also, those of George Hafer and J. AV. G. Stackpole. On the 
north-east corner of Forest and Washington avenues is the residence of 
William A. AYebb, with about two acres of land. The north-west corner is 
graced with one of the handsomest pieces of property in Avondale — that of 
Charles Hofer. He has about two acres of land, upon which he erected, 
three years ago, an expensive residence. It is well finished throughout, has a 
Mansard roof, and is surrounded by attractive grounds. His evergreens are 



Jluondoyle. 21 

very beautiful. In his yard are twelve Norway r^pruce, some of which are 
forty years old. In addition to these, the larch, cedar, and Avhite pine abound. 

Going north, on Wasliington avenue, first comes the residence of L. H. 
Sargent, erected about five years ago, upon a large lot. Adjoining this is the 
John Mears property, which is occupied by Mr. IMetirs' wid()\\'. The building 
is an old one, but the beautiful orchard and splendid evergreens grow more 
attractive by age. 

To the right are the premises of Judge "W. Y. Gholson, a time-honored 
dwelling in the midst of fifteen acres of fruit and other trees. It was the for- 
mer residence of Dr. William Smith, one of the early citizens of Avondale. 
Judge Gholson has resided here about ten years, and no doubt finds unusual 
pleasure in the retirement which this quiet, comfortable home afibrds. 
On the same avenue, are the residences of H. M. MagiU, F. C. Ben- 
nett, and H. A. Johnston, all of them tasteful homes with fine surround- 
ings. On the north-west corner of Washington and Mom-oe avenues, is 
the residence of Frederick Schultze, erected three years ago. It has a ver- 
anda looking out on Washington avenue, and is surrounded by ample 
grounds. At the foot of IMonroe avenue, Godfrey Holterhofi' has an expen- 
sive dwelling, with Mansard roof and tower. His building fiices the east, and 
occupies a position which commands an extensive view of the ^liUcreek vaUey 
and higlilands beyond. 

Keturning to Forest avenue, and proceeduig to the west, we pass the resi- 
dence of A. B. Johnson, a neat two-story frame edifice, with plenty of shrub- 
i)cry and fruit; and that of Lester Taylor, with evergreens and fruit trees 
surrounding. Near thom, George W. Guysi has a residence of irregular out- 
line, erected in 18()7, upon a lot of two acres. The improvements surround- 
ing the house are new, and the landscape to the north very beautiful. Gleu- 
dale, seven miles away, can be distinctly i^eew. Still farther to the west is 
the dweUing of John Gaff', erected about foiu- years ago. !Mr. Gaff has a 
circular drive and a very pretty lawn, with evergreens and shrubbery wcW. 
distributed throughout his grounds. 

At the east end of the avenue is the former residence of Allen Collier, 



22 SiLOUy-rhs of OzTzozizizcoti. 

i-ecently purchased by Mr. Cleneay, very tasteful, with an abundance of ever- 
greens about it, and surroundings of no ordinary attraction. There are about 
fifteen acres of land, to the rear of wliich is a grove of native forest trees. 
Few places in Avondale are so picturesque as this. 

On Rockdale avenue, AViUiara Horsely erected a dwelling in 1867. Near 
it is the Williams property, a large residence on the north side. 

Still further to the westward, on Rockdale avenue, are the residences of 
J. L. Haven and Theopliilus Wilson, both comfortable frame dwelUngs, 
surrounded by beautiful grounds. 

On the same avenue, near Washington avenue, the Rev. James Stevenson, 
pastor of the jNIethodist Episcopal Church, has a neat two-story frame resi- 
dence, erected two years ago. 

Near Main avenue are the residences of J. E. AVynne and Gomer Wynne, 
tasteful in their external appearance, and neat in all their appointments. 
The residences of these brothers are adjoining, and just west of the Presby- 
terian Church, which is also on this avenue. 

Reaching Main avenue, and proceeding to the south, four improvements 
are soon approached that will compare favoral^ly with any in the \'illage. 
They are on the west side of Main avenue, and near each other. The first 
is that of John Grubb, at the head of Maple avenue, a very pretty little 
street running west from Main. Mr. Grubb has about three acres of land, 
well improved, with a residence erected nearly six years ago. His location is 
a very desirable one. He is away from the main thoroughfare, yet very 
accessible. Next, on the south, is the residence of John Dickson, erected 
six years ago. He has a lot of about three acres, well laid out, through 
which his dwelling is approached by a neatly-kept drive. His house has 
heavy double porticoes looking to the avenue. 

South of Mr. Dickson's are the premises of Andrew Lamb, Avho has three 
and a half acres handsomely laid out and kept in admirable order. His 
dwelling is brick, with tower, and veranda on lower front, from which he 
looks over his lawn to the avenue. The house, Hke those on either side, is 



n 



J- 



vondcble. 23 



well removed from the street, and occupies a beautiful position, which is 
attained by a gradual and easy ascent. 

Adjoining ]\lr. Lamb's is the residence of H. F. West, which was recently 
finished at a heavy cost. It is a fine edifice, with Mansard roof. From his 
broad verandas, that embrace both the south and east of the building, the land 
foils rapidly both to ]\Iain avenue on the east and Linden avenue on the 
south, and exliibits one of the prettiest slopes that is seen in Avondale. ^Ir. 
West has about six acres of land within liis inclosure, all of which presents a 
favorable appearance from the south and east. On Linden avenue, \\\\\q\\ 
bounds Mr. Wesf s property on the south, are the residences of R. A. John- 
ston, Simpson Glenn, and William Glenn. They are pleasantly situated, in 
the midst of handsome grounds. The locations of the ^lessrs. Glenn are on the 
summit of the elevation which Linden avenue surmounts, and besides having 
very neatly-kept lawns, have superb landscapes stretching away to the east. 

On Linden avenue, Samuel J. Hale has recently erected a commodious 
and elegant residence, with all the modern conveniences and improvements. 
The location is an admirable one, and time only is needed to develop a spot 
of surpassing beauty. 

Opposite ]Mi-. Hale's is a tiisteful two-story brick residence, erected by ]\Ir. 
Lamb for liis son John Lamb, and now occupied by Dr. T. R. Spence. The 
dweUing occupies an eligible position, and the premises are (juite attractive. 

East of these improvements are the residences on Ridgway street. One 
of these, belonging to Dr. Scudder, lately completed, occupies a position from 
which it appears equally well from both 3Iain avenue and Ridgway street. 
Fayette Smith has also a new, commodious edifice on the same street. 

On the west side of Main avenue, south of Linden avenue, as we approach 
Cincinnati, is the dwelling of F. W. Dury and that lately occupied by B. 
F. Raddack, both substantial edifices, weU liidden by thick shrubbery and 
occasional forest trees, and approached through picturesque drives. IS'ear 
the southern boundary of the vUlage, on the east side, is the residence of the 
family of the late General ^I. S. AVade, a roomy edifice, well laiown to 
those familiar with the early history of the Lebanon Pike, as the place 
improved by Horace Gooch, about the year 1835, then called Beech Grove 
Female Seminaiy. 



24 8'bih'hLThs of CzTiGzmxati. 

On the east side of Burnet avenue, is the residence of Henry Niemeyer, 
erected about five years ago. Mr. Niemeyer has a location wliich has few 
superiors in this locality. 

The residence of H. J. Hickman on ]Main aveinie south of Linden avenue, is 
a neat edifice surrounded with shrubbery and well removed from the street. 
On Grove street, near Rockdale avenue, John Kennett, two years ago, erected 
a tasteful residence. Mr. Kennett selected a locust grove for the site of his 
building. 

There are other places which must l)e left unmentioned, some of wliich are 
scarcely less attractive than those which have been described. 

CHURCHES. 

Avondale has three church organizations, all of which now have places of 
worship. 

The Presbyterian Church, lately Old School, a very tastefid brick edifice, was 
completed and occupied about the first of February, 1868. It is situated on 
the north side of Rockdale avenue, a short distance from Main avenue. The 
building is forty-three by sixty-three feet. The audience room is furnished 
with pine and black walnut pews, cushioned with crimson damask. It has 
inside shutters, and a neat pulpit, constructed of the same material, the panels 
of the latter being covered with crimson. The church is nicely carpeted, 
and is, withal, a very cozy house of worship. The pastor. Rev. Joseph Gam- 
ble, formerly of St. Louis, has been Avith the ci^ngregation since November, 
1867. 

The Grace jNIethodist Episcopal Church, formerly Mears Chapel, is a neat 
edifice forty feet by sixty feet, situated on the south side of Forest avenue, 
west of AVashington avenue. The building was thoroughly repaired and 
much improved two years ago at an expense of twenty-two hmidred dollars. 
Two porticoes were added, and the inside neatly finished and furnished. 
The society is not large, yet it maintains a stationed minister, Avho receives 
a salary of fifteen hundred dollars per annum. Rev, James Stevenson 



jivondcble. 2o 

Iia,s been the pastor of the church since the conference of 1807. The Sab- 
bath school is under the charge of Stephen H. Burton. 

Grace Protestant Episcopal Church has been erected during tlie past year, 
and was first occupied Sunday, February 27, 1870, on which occasion the ser- 
mon was preached by the Rev. AVm. A. Snively, Rector of Christ Church. 
The edifice is a gothic chapel, with a steep slate roof, and bell turret in the 
rear. The material is blue limestone, undressed, with the freestone trimmings 
that so handsomely relieve the severity of the dark stone now largely usc%'l 
in our public buildings. The front is furnished with a large decorated 
window of stained glass, the main windows in the audience room being of 
the same material. The entrance to the main room is by two lateral stone 
porches. The chancel is of medium size, with tlie choir on the one side and 
tiie vestr}' room on the other. In the rear, the chancel is adorned Avith a 
handsome, decorated window. The interior of the church is as neat and 
chaste as the exterior is tasteful. The pews are cowered with crimson, terrv, 
and are elegant in all respects. 

The room, wliich Avill seat two hundred and fifty persons, is handsomely car- 
peted, and the whole presents the appearance of a sul)u;-ban church-home that 
would do credit to any congregation. The edifice is on a lot two acres in extent, 
on ^lain avenue, north of Glenwood avenue. The cost of lot and churcli, when 
entirely completed, will retich 025,000. The rector, the Rev. A. F. Blake, 
has been with the congregation since its organization in April, 1866. The 
present membership is about twenty. The Sabbath school, in cliai-ge of B. 
F. Lewis, averages thirtv scholars. 



SCHOOLS. 

The public school of Avondale is a lai-ge one, and will liear comparison 
with any in the country. It is under the charge of A. B. Johnson, wirh 
five assistant teachers, ons of whom i< his accomplished wife. The Avhole 
number of pupil^ enrolled is four hundred and fifty-eight ; in regular attend- 
ance, three hundred and fifty. Fifteen years ago the number in attendance 



26 S'LohzoTjbs of OzTioznizcbtz. 

Avas thirty-three. The school building is of brick, about seventy feet by thirty, 
witli haU and six rooms. It was remodeled three years ago, to afford 
accommodations for the increased number of children. It is eligibly located 
on the west side of Main avenue, south of Rockdale avenue, and the grounds 
upon which it stands have recently been enlarged by the purchase of lands 
extending to the latter avenue. 

APPROACHES. 

The approaches to Avondale are much the same as those to Walnut Hills. 
The main route is by the Lebanon turnpilie, though it can easily be reached 
both from INIt. Auburn and Walnut Hills. Omnibuses run at regular 
intervals during the day, passing through the entire village, which is about 
one mile and a half in length. The time will soon come when it A\all have a 
street railway. A through route is entirely practicable, and an extension 
of the Mount Auburn road among the probabilities. 

POPULATION. 

The population of Avondale, in the absence of a census, can only be con- 
jectured. It probably ranges from twelve to fifteen hundred. It is composed 
largely of the families of business men who are actively employed in Cincin- 
nati. There are comparatively few of any other class. The society of the 
place is good, and there is every facility for social culture and enjoyment. 

The follomng gentlemen are the municipal officers of Avondale for 1870-71 : 

Mayor — Robert A. Johnston. 

Recorder — ^A. B. Johnson. 

Council — Robert Mitchell, Seth Evans, John Gaff, John 
Dickson, James L. Haven, and W. J. Berne. 

Marshal — Jeremiah Twohig. 



i:^il?T'PJ^ 




MONG the many suburbs of Cincinnati, there is no one that is more 

favorably known than Clifton. Its beautiful drives, splendid 

improvements, and fine prospects, have been for years among the 

chief attractions of Cincinnati's surroundings. 

W. G. W. Gano may be considered the pioneer of Clifton. He removed 

to the place he now occupies, at the foot of Crescent avenue, in the year 

1838, and has resided there uninterruptedly since that time. 

In 1843, Robert Buchanan purchased forty- three acres of land, which he 
noAV occupies, thirty-three acres of which he bought of Nicholas Longworth 
at $40 per acre, and the remainder of Mr. Avery at $60 per acre. The 
country then was much inilike the Clifton of to-day. The Carthage road 
was but partially completed, and a part of this route, during the wet season, 
was almost impassable. Clifton avenue was an unimproved mud road that 
had recently been changed from the old Ir\\'in ^lill route to the section line. 
Mr. Buchanan put up a house at once, and in July of the same year 
removed with his family. He, however, for years, used it oidy as a summer 
residence, spending the winters in Cincinnati. He soon felt the need of 
neighbors, and set liimself at work to devise means to procure them. The 
Lafayette Bank had come into possession of five hundred acres of land, 
which embraced those west of the present Clifton and Crescent avenues, and 
north of William Gibson's. The land was valued at $75 per acre for that 
which was cleared, and $50 for the timber. 



28 SiihiMThs of CinGinnchtz. 

In 184o, a committee was sent out, that, ^^■ith the assistance of ?ilr. 
Buchanan, located the present Lafayette avenue, naming it for the bank, 
and di^nded the lands into tracts of from ten to forty acres, to which the}- 
affixed prices. The division was about the same that now exists. The lot^; 
\\c\; owned by ^lessrs. Probasco, Ellis, Taylor, and Bennett, were woodland, 
valued at $65 per acre ; that of INIr. Rhoenberger, $46 ; Bishop Mcllvaine, 
s75 ; Mr. DeLand, $80 ; I\Ir. Sherlock, $81 ; while that now owned by ]\Irs. 
Xeave, on account of its elevation and the land having l:)een cleared, was 
\'alued at $104, which was the highest valuation placed upon any tract. 
The lot where Mrs. Bowler's house stands Avas valued at $45 per acre. 
.Vt these prices, which now seem incredibly low, the lands were generally dis- 
posed of during the years of 1848 and 1844. 

Flameu Ball, Esq., in the summer of 1843, purchased twenty-two acres 
of what was known as the Ireland property, made improvements, and 
removed to it in August of that year. Mr. Ball has resided there ever since, 
and is thus one of the oldest residents of CUfton. He Avas soon followed by 
B. B. Whiteman, who purchased the land where he no^v resides in the same 
year, and removed with his family in 1844. 

In 1844, Winthrop B. Smith purchased the lot owned by Mr. DeLand, 
erected the residence noAv there, and removed to it the same year. Bisho]) 
^icllvaine purchased his lot in 1844, erected buildings, and removed to them 
in 1846. About the same time, or soon thereafter, purchases and imj)rove- 
ments were made by Dr. John A. Warder, William B. Dodds, tiamilton 
Harbaugh, John. W. Burrows, Daniel Bowdell, and J. B. Schroeder. 

The work of building having fairly begun in this suburb, tlie want of incor- 
l)oration soon became apparent. Streets needed to be improved, the public- 
peace preserved, and citizens protected against stock running at large. Ste}is 
were accordingly taken to procure an act of incorporation, which, in 184!:', 
t'nrough the unremitting exertions of Flamen Ball, was obtained. ^i\\ 
Dall was electe<l the first mayor, and discharged the duties of that office eacli 
year following, until 1860, with the exception of two terms. 



OUfton. 29 

The tract of land alluded to as having belonged to the Lafayette Bank, 
liad been known as the Clifton Farm, and this name, by a kind of common 
consent, had been adopted as the name of the new community. 



BOrXDARIES. 

Clifton is bounded on the east by the Carthage turnpike, that runs. 
after leaving the toll-gate, a few degrees east of north, until reaching the 
little Catholic community of l*?t. Bernard, which is just beyond the most 
northerly pouit of Clifton. Running thence almost due west, the corpora- 
tion Une strikes the Miami canal, which winds around the base of the hills 
ui)on which Clifton is built, pursuing a south-westerly direction for some dis- 
tance, and then turning to the south until reaching the House of Refuge. 
These constitute the northern and western boundaries, while the southern is 
the soutli lines of sections 21 and 15, which it follows until reaching the 
p(jint where the latter intersects the Carthage road. The ^illage embracer 
nearly all of section 21, and parts of sections 15, 16, and 22, the whole 
making about two sections of land. 

The configuration of the land is such that the entire district is admirably 
adapted to country seats ; and this is speciall}^ true of that which lies adja- 
cent to the pomt where the hiUs begin rapidly to descend to the ]\Iillcreek 
Valley. Every person who has passed along the Cincinnati, Hamilton and 
Da}-ton Railroad, or the common roads that run through the valley of Ivlill- 
creek, remembers tlie noble liills that sweep around for several miles to the 
east, covered with rich foliage or luxuriant grass, Avith now and then a tower, 
or buttress, or veranda, partially disclosed by ojienings in the forest trees. 
These highlands are Clifton, from the slopes of which the beholder looks out 
upon a valley of great extent and of rare beauty. For many miles to the 
north are suburban places, bejiutifid farms, comfortable farm-houses, fields 
rich in pasturage, interspersed with beautiful groves. Beyond are the grand 
hills, then- sides covered with verdure and dotted with the houses of thrifty 
farmers. Through the valley the creek wanders, and the landscape is 
scarcelv ever without a railroid train to lend it additional ir.terest. 



30 S'LihiuThs of Cinczjzizcbtz. 

Clifton is purely a suburban place. There is nothing of the toAvn about it. 
There is neither store, grocery, mechanic's shop, nor saloon, and the whole 
place is so completely under the control of those who desire to keep it for 
purposes .of country residence, that it must be many years before the general 
character of the place can change. Of course, it will become more tliickly 
settled. Each year the inhabitants will mcrease in numbers, until it will 
become less retired ; but it will be among tlie last places about Cincinnati 
that will suffer from encroachments of business. 



AVENUES. 

Clifton has few avenues — the places generally being large, and as accessi- 
ble by one main avenue, with two or three diverging ones, as if there were 
a score. The principal one is named after the place — Clifton — and runs 
north and south on the section line. This avenue, ten years ago, was con- 
tinued south along the western boundary of Corryville to the city corpora- 
tion line — making the entire avenue two miles in length ; but there is only 
about one mile of this that lies within the corporate hmits of Clifton. 

It is a broad, well-improved avenue, with a solidly-constructed road-bed 
covered with gravel, and green s^vard skirting it throughout its entire length. 
Shade trees have generally been planted on either side, and, while they now 
afford an agreeable shade, in a few years they will make this one of the 
shadiest, coolest drives about the city. Intersecting this, near the south cor- 
poration line, is the old Cumminsville road, now called Ludlow avenue, 
which bears off, in a north-westerly direction, to Cumminsville. 

The next street intersecting Clifton avenue is Glenway, a pretty little 
avenue, along which are three or four attractive homes. This runs across 
from Clifton avenue to the Carthage road. When it has performed about 
half the distance, it is intersected by Brookhne avenue, which leaves the 
main road that conies from Corryville, midway between Carthage road and 
Clifton avenue, and runs northwardly through a slight depression that seems 
made expressly for this purpose. 



CUftoTh. 31 

^ : -^ — : 

A short distance beyond, along the north line of Theodore Cook's place, is 
Resor avenue, wliich leaves Clifton avenue and runs west about a fourth of 
a mUe, to the residence of David Gibson. A short distance north, running 
parallel with the latter, is Central avenue. This leaves Clifton avenue 
at the school-house, and runs west to Lafayette avenue, which it intersects 
near the western terminus of the latter. 

Clifton avenue terminates at the old Episcopal Church property, now the 
residence of William P. Neff, from which point tro avenues diverge — the 
one to the right called Crescent avenue, which runs first to the north-east, 
and then, gradually bearing to the left to reach Spring Grove Cemetery, 
describes a curve which gives the street its name. The street to the left is 
Lafayette avenue, which runs westerly, bearing gradually to the south until 
it intersects Ludlow avenue, not far fi-om the western boundary of Clifton. 
This avenue is a smooth, beautiful, graveled dri\-e, with young shade trees 
on either side, and distinguished for ha\'iug the finest residences upon it that 
are found in Clifton. 

While there are fewer buildings in Clifton than in other suburbs, there is 
also more difference in size and value. The extremes are the neat cottage, 
^^•ith its airy verandas and witching wies and flowers, and the palatial resi- 
dence, with massive walls, and porches, and imposing tower, upon Avhich 
wealth has freely used the skill of the best mechanics and artists, and to 
adorn which the galleries of Europe have been made to pay tribute. The 
tender plant that bears its tiny flowers and scents the air with its delicate 
perfume bears quite as necessary a part in the landscape as the great forest 
tree, under whose branches flocks and herds find ^;helter from the storm. 

Clifton avenue, throughout its entire length, and Lafayette avenue, from 
the former to the })r(>j)('rty of Mrs. Bowler, has on one side an asphaltum 
pavement as sohd and beautiful as can anywhere be found. 



32 Siyih'ui''hs of C^TLGijhizcLtz-. 



DESCRIPTION. 

Beginning at the south end of Clifton avenue, there is first on the east 
side the residence of James Andrews, a substantial structure, facing both 
the south and west. On the south, the building is broad, and is a})i)roached 
through a 'porie cochere, which leads immediately into the base of the 
tower, through which the main part of the edifice is entered. There is, west 
of the tower, along ihe south part, a veranda, and on the upper side of the 
west front a suljstantial porch, su^^ported l)y heavy freestone pillars. The 
building has freestone quoins, and trimmings generally of the same material. 
His house, being well back toward Brookline avenue, is approached from 
Clifton avenue through an extensive lawn well planted with shrubbery and 
evergreens, and adorned with flowers. 

Glenway passes along the north line of Mr. AndrcAVs' tract, wliicli 
comprises fourteen acres, beyond which, on Clifton avenue, are tlie beautiful 
premises of Captain James Bugher. His dwelling fronts on the avenue ; 
has small gables looking to the south, and a light veranda along the entire 
front. The grounds are tasteful, well shaded with forest trees, embellished 
with flowers and statuary, and mtersected by gravel and shell walks and 
drives, and contain a good conservatory. The dwelling was erected, about 
the year 1852, by William B. Shattuck and A. G. Richardson. ^n, 

Nearly opposite Captain Bughei- is the residence of^Iheodore Cook, erected 
about fifteen years ago. This is a noble edifice, with to^vcr on the south, 
and spacious veranda on the lower front. The grounds through which the 
buildings are approached by a circular graveled drive, are handsomely 
embellished with forest trees, evergreens, shrubbery and flower,>. In the 
lawn, which is broad and beautiful, are several pieces of statuary. Grace- 
ful young maples skirt the drives, and the whole jricmises, of four acres, are 
decidedly tasteful and beautiful. 



Olifton. 33 

On the east side of the avenue, a;lj(MiHiig Captain Buu-her on the north, 
is the home of B. B. "Wliitenian, who has been alluded to as among the earl}' 
Cincinuatiaus who souglit Clifton. Mi-. Whiteman purchased these grounds 
of six acres in 1843. The following year he began to spend the summer 
here with his fomily, and continued thus until l<SoO, when he removed 
permanently, and has resided in Clifton since. jNlr. Whiteman's residence 
is without ostentation, yet roomy, convenient and pleasant. On the south 
he has a broad, airy veranda, that looks out upon a tliick gro^vth of forest 
trees, interspersed with evergreens and flowers, with which his premises 
abound. 

^STearly opposite 3Ir. Whiteman, on the west side of the avenue, is the 
residence of Robert Hosea, built about twenty years ago by Reuben Resor. 
This is a spacious edifice, occupying a position which commands a desirable 
view to the east. It has a broad gable on the lower half of the main front, 
immediately north of which rises a tower. Through tlie latter the main 
edifice is entered. On the south is a veranda looking upon Resor avenue, 
which passes along his south line. Mr. Hosea has eight acres of land, 
numerous forest trees, well-grown evergreens, and plenty of fioAvers, besides 
a tasteful and roomy conservatoiy. 

Xorth of Mr. Hosea is the AVood estate, that extends well back along 
Central avenue, which bounds it on the north. 

On the east side of the avenue, nearly opposite the latter premises, is 
the comfortable, cozy home of Gazzam Gauo, with tower and veranda. 
This was erected on a lot of six acres, about five ycEirs ago. The yard, 
\vhich is Avell stocked with shade trees, shrubbery and flowers, is yet 
undergoing improvements that will niike i\[r. Oano's location still more 
attractive. 

In some respects there is no more desirable place in Clifton than that of 
William Resor, Avhich bounds ^Ir. Gano's on the north. He has about 
thirty acres of land that lie in graceful waves, and extend back to the Car- 
thage road on the east. Mr. Resor came here about the year 1844, so that 
he may be considered one of the Cliftou i)ionoers. His house has been 



34 j^-bobzii^hs of CzTiGzizizcbti. 

erected about twenty-two years; but such additions and changes have 
been made that its former self, Avith the Mansard roof and broad verandas, 
is scarcely discernible. But Mr. Resor's house is not the chief attrac- 
tion. His charming grounds are the crowning beauty of his premises. 
The long and graceful drive from the south of his dwelling ; the noble 
forest trees ; numerous and rare evergreens, and the broad lawn, covered 
with the richest tapestry of nature's loom, and interspersed with the 
choicest flowers and plants, captivate the spectator at once. What, per- 
haps, gives increased interest to these premises, is the proximity of the 
graceful Calvary Church, which is on a lot from the north-west corner of 
Mr. Resor's place. Few churches in the country have the symmetry of 
this charming little temple, whose slender freestone spire, as if reaching 
for heavenly benedictions, lifts its faultless form above the surrounding vil- 
lage, and challenges the admiration of all who take pleasure in beautiful 
architectural designs. 

On the north-west corner of Clifton and Central avenues is the jDublic 
school building and hall, immediately adjoining which are the premises of 
A. C. Neave. Mr, Neave has about six acres of beautiful, roUing land, 
and has a substantial and comfortable residence, erected in 1867, on the 
site of a building which had been destroyed by fire. 

Adjoining this on the north is J. Lloyd Wayne's, which, like Mr. Resor's, 
is enough for a small farm. Mr. Wayne has about thirty-five acres. 
Upon one of the handsomest elevations he has erected a dwelling, with a 
center observatory and veranda. His house is approached by a circular 
drive, which embraces a fine lawn. From JNIr. Wayne's place, good views 
of Mt. Auburn and other suburbs are procured, and glimpses of distant 
landscapes are caught over the hill-tops and through the openings in the 
forest trees. 

North of Mr. Wayne's is William Gibson's, of sixteen acres. The 
edifice is a large one, erected four years ago, with veranda on the south 
and along a portion of the front. Mr. Gibson, like hi-, neighbor, has a 
good graveled drive, and a superb vicAV of Avondale and the country to the 
east. 



Clifton. 35 

Thomas Sherlock's premises consist of nine acres of laud, and a resi- 
dence erected about thirteen years ago. The latter has a tower and 
veranda on the south and along a portion of the east front. His lawn is 
covered with a beautiful green sward and embellished "with flowers. AVhile 
he looks out upon his own handsome improvements, he enjoys the beau- 
tiful landscapes in which this locality is so rich. 

Opposite the two latter places, on the east side of the avenue, are the 
premises of Flamen Ball, who has also been mentioned as one of the Clif- 
ton pioneers. Mr. Ball has twenty acres of land that sweep away to the 
east, and a very eligible location for his dwelling, which is one of the ear- 
liest erected in Clifton. 

. North of "jNIr. Ball's is James Espy's, a delightful home, surrounded 
by light verandas and covered Avith flowers and climbing vines. The 
lot is about one acre and a half in extent, avcII covered with trees, 
shrubbery and flowers, and distinguished throughout for its quiet beauty. 
This is owned by Mr. DeLand, but Mr. Espy has recently purchased four 
acres immediately north of Calvary Church, upon which he will soon erect 
a dwelling no less attractive than the one he now occupies. 

Following the avenue northwardly, next comes, on the right, the place 
of Charles M. Buchanan, consisting of forty-four acres, at the terminus of 
Clifton avenue. Of all the locations about Clifton, there is, perhaps, no 
one that equals i\Ir. Buchanan's for the extent of its beautiful landscapes. 

The family mansion, which has so long been the hospitable residence of 
Robert Buchanan, is immediately upon the brow of the hill, and looks out 
upon the extensive and elegant improvements of Clifton, Mt. Auburn 
and Avondale, on the one hand, and the MiUcreek Valley, with its varied 
spectacle of village and farm, cultivated field and distant forest-covered hill 
on the other. Mr. Buchanan's place is one with which the eye does not 
tire. Nature spreads here a continual feast, and varies it from day to day 
to suit our capricious tastes. This residence was ei'ected by Robert 
Buchanan, who now occupies it, in 1843. Since tliat time additions and 
improvements have been made to increase the capacity of the house and 



36 Szohv^j^hs of Gino^ixizGut'i . 

render it a pleasanter home. It is embraced by verandas which command 
superb views of the surrounding landscapes, and look out upon the culti- 
vated and handsomely-imjDroved grounds. Fine forest and fruit trees, 
evergreens and rare flowers everywhere greet the eye, and indicate the cul- 
tivated taste and untiring industry that have transformed these once rough 
hills into a home of such beauty. jNIi". Buchanan has a large luimber of 
fruit trees, and cultivates the gra23e quite extensively. The family resi- 
dence is approached over a graveled drive that winds among well-grown 
evergreens and young forest trees. Charles M. Buchanan lives in a little 
valley which is crossed in approaching the highlands of the farm. He has 
a tasteful cottage, which he fitted up four years ago. This is surrounded 
with shrubbery and \vell-improved grounds, and has a lakelet near by, fed 
l)y s]3rings, and well stocked with fish. To jNIr. Buchanan's other attrac- 
tions has recently been added a tasteful conservatory, which is well stocked 
with flowers. 

Allusion has now been made to all the well-improved property upon 
Clifton avenue, with the exception of that of C. W. DeLand, who has sev- 
enteen acres on the south-west corner of Clifton and Lafayette avenues. 
The house built high above the surrounding lands, and approached by a 
stairway which ascends the green terrace, was built by Winthrop B. Smith 
many yeai's ago. The forest trees and thick foliage through -which the 
drive winds quite hide the building from view, until it is discovered by a 
near approach. 

As has been stated elsewhere, Clifton avenue terminates on the north 
in Crescent and Lafayette avenues. Immediately at the head of the ave- 
nue stood the old Episcopal Church, recently converted into a tasteful resi- 
dence by Gazzam Gano, and/at present occupied by Wm. P. NeflT. Imme- 
diately to the rear of this, and bounded by both Crescent and Lafayette 
avenues, are the premises of J. B. Bennett, consisting of forty-one acres 
of land and a handsome residence of ample dimensions. This edifice was 
erected about the year 1854, and was purchased by Mr. Bennett of Judge- 
McLean. Mr. Bennett's lands are a porLion of the long stretch of high- 



CUfton. 37 

lands whic'li overlook Millcreek Valley, and sAvocp around westwardly in 
easy curves until passing >\Ir. Bowler's place, where thoy turn sharply to 
the south. All these locations are of the most beautiful character. They 
begin in Clifton with Mr, Buchanan's premises, and continue around to the 
residence of Mrs. Bowler. These sites are very much the same. They 
are varied somewhat by the forest trees and ornamental gardening, but all 
preserve a common lookout to the INIillcreek Valley and distant highlands 
beyond. Mr. Bennett has an abundance of original forest trees, well- 
improved grounds and a larg:' conservatory. 

Adjoining on the west, as one passes up Lafiiyette avenue, is the resi- 
dence of the late Griffin Taylor, Avhieh, since his death, has continued to 
be occupied by his family. The house was erected by H. W. Derby, in 
1855, who, in that year, paid about .^1,000 per acre for the land, which, 
twelve years before, had been sold by the Lafayette Bank for '^Qo. These 
grounds, eighteen acres in extent, are handsomely laid out and kept in 
excellent repair. As you approach them from the avenue, you are con- 
fronted by thick foliage which quite hides the beautiful premises until you 
are well AHthin the enclosure; then, as you turn to right or left, the broad 
lawn suddenly bursts upon you with its green carpet, its old forest trees, and 
beautiful shrubbeiy and flowers. This place enjoys the lookout to the west 
and north, the same as the neighboring tracts. 

Adjoining the Taylor propei-t\' on the w'est are the residence and groimds 
of John AV. Ellis. The latter consist of twenty-one acres, handsomely laid 
out, with broad circular drive, grand native forest trees, many of the forest 
trees of England and other countries, besides a fine variety of evergreens. 
Mr. Ellis' lawn, which is one of the most beautifid in Clifton, is laid out so 
as to appear to the best advantage, and is kept in admirable order. He has 
a very tasteful flower garden, and in front of his promises a very fine hedge, 
with half-grown forest trees planted at regular intervals along the avenue. 
The house, wliich was erected by ^^^ B. Smith, about fifteen years ago, is 
of the Italian villa style, with verandas on three sides of the main building. 



38 BzihiLThs of OiixGiTincLt^ . 

It has a convenient interior arrangement, ample room, a general appear- 
ance of comfort and repose, and a magnificent prospect to the northward. 

On the same side of Lafayette avenue, and immediately adjoining Mr. 
Ellis, are the premises of Henry Probasco. They are the finest in the sub- 
urbs of Cincinnati. The gTounds are spacious and varied in their attrac- 
tions, and the house rich in all that delights the eye. 

In 1857 Mr. Probasco purchased land on the opposite side of the avenue, 
and began its improvement. It soon, however, became apparent that the 
place would not equal his expectations, so that, in the following year, he 
purchased, for $25,000, the tliu'ty acres upon which his palatial residence 
now stands, and at once began his preparations for improvement. Having 
selected an architect, AVilliam Tinsley, and determined upon plans, he began, 
in 1859, the erection of his house. This continued through several years, 
and was finally completed in 1866. It is constructed of blue limestone. 
The quoins, angles and buttresses are of freestone, each piece of which is 
hammer-marked to make it harmonize w'ith the rough limestone. The walls 
are of rubble-work, the face of the stone having been untouched by chisel 
or hammer. 

The general style of the house is Anglo-Norman. It is one hundred and 
twenty feet long by seventy feet in width, fronting southwardly. In front 
is a massive stone terrace, which extends the entire length of the building. 
The house is entered through a magnificent stone porch, Avith elegant Nor- 
man arches. At the north-east end of the edifice is a y)orie cochere, con- 
structed of freestone, and the building is siu'mounted by a round tower, 
which springs from the walls of the main stairway. The whole external 
appearance of the building is one of spaciousness without useless room, of 
dignity without coldness, of variety without the loss of harmony. 

Running through the building from the main porch is the grand hall, 
seventy by fifteen feet. Tliis is wainscoted with oak, cedar and white pine, 
and ceiled with white pine and oak. These materials are all finished in the 
highest degree. 

Intersecting the main haU on the right, as you enter tlie building from 



CUfton. 39 

the front, 'is a side hall, capacious, though of less width than the principal 
one. This leads directly to the j;ojfe cochere. From this hall two large 
arched doors lead, the one to tlie north into the library, the other to the 
south into the parlor. The library is thirty-five by twenty-five feet, termin- 
ating on the north in a spacious bay window. The walls, shelves and sides 
are of cedar, and the air is loaded with tlie grateful perfume of the wood. 
The books are contained on shelves that are intersected at short intervals by 
oak columns. The latter are surmounted by capitals of solid oak, upon 
whicli are exquisitely carved representative leaves and flowers of the flora of 
this country. From these columns spring arches which contain niches for 
busts and statuettes. All the panels of the room are red cedar, while the 
ceiling is frescoed in harmony with the architectural character of the room. 
Tlie liln-ary table is constructed of the best quality of oak, carved in an 
elaborate and unique manner, and is a masterpiece of art. 

Immediately opposite the library is the parlor, a room thirty by twenty- 
four feet, entered from the side hall through a massive circular doorway of 
exquisite workmanship. The room itself, independent of its expensive pic- 
tures, its rare mosaics and its superb furniture, is a woi'k of art. The cor- 
nice is of varied finish, and in the ceiling there is a wonderful combination 
of colors and shades. This room contains tA\o massive bay windows, which 
are approached through arches of oak supported by highly-polished pillars 
of the same material. The soffit of the arch in the front bay window is 
embellished throughout its length with a representation of the honeysuckle 
carved in oak, wliich is a work of rare perfection. The capitals of the pil- 
lars are also carved to harmonize with the remainder of the work. 

The reception room, dining room and bed chambers are all in unison Avith 
the remainder of the house. The stairway is a superb design and a tri- 
umph of mechanical skill. The wood-^vork of the kitchen and laundr}-, 
like the remainder of the house, even to the sash of the windows, is of solid 
oak. 

Mr. Frobasco's ample grounds are in keeping with the house erected upon 
them. The improvement of them was begun immediately after the pur- 



40 Szihioi^hs of C-bThG-bixixcLti . 

chase ; and the present perfect state, with the gentle slopes, the gradual rise 
and fall of the surface, has been attained by years of labor and large expend- 
iture. Deep ravines have been filled, elevations cut down and inequal- 
ities reconciled, until the present grounds bear no resemblance to their con- 
dition ten years ago. Besides the beautiful lawns which surround Mr. Pro- 
linsco's residence, he has almost every thing in the shape of shade and orna- 
in'Bntal trees. In addition to the forest trees of our own country, he has a 
large collection of foreign beech, ash, oak, elm and maple, and a valuable 
ollection of evergreens, gathered from various countries of the globe. 
The Pyrenees, the Himalayas and the Rocky Mountains have each made 
their contribution. 

Besides these, Mr. Probasco has a rosarium, in which he has four thou- 
sand roses. He has also a beautiful collection of variegated-leaf plants and 
hardy shrubs, together with many hardy ferns. This is a meager descrip- 
tion of the floral beauties of this place. If space would permit, there could 
1)9 given a formidable list of plants and flowers which the forests and gar- 
den^ of the world have contributed. 

In addition to other treasures, Mr. Probasco has been quietly but rapidly 
collecting one of the richest and most valuable libraries in the United 
States, and adorning his residence with some of the most expensive and 
meritorious works of art ever brought to this country. 

Before entei'ing the house, we meet upon the terrace Kiss's Amazon, in 
bronze. Of these there are but three in existence : the colossal one before 
the palace in Berlin, one in possession of the King of Prussia, and the one 
here alluded to, purchased of the widow of the artist by Mr. Probasco, 
during his recent visit to Europe. 

In marble, there are "San Souci," by Ives; "Reading Girl," by Magni; 
"Cordelia," a bust of exquisite workmanship, by Gonolly; the "Reading 
Girl," by Tnntardini; "Innocence," by Prof. Fedi, of Florence; "Ruth," 
by Rogers. 

In addition to these are splendid mosaics, one of them representing 
Rome from the forum to the Coliseum — a work of unusual excellence. 



Clifton. 41 

There are also two Mosaic tables — one Roman and the other Florentine — 
which are rare and expensive works of art. 

To the snperb gallery of paintings, comprising some of tlie most costly 
and beantiful ever brouglit to this country, no m()r(> than a })assing notice 
can be given. 

The library is filled with books of remote antiquity, as well as many 
volumes, attractive and useful, of modern times. It contains nearly one 
hundred copies of the various editions of the Bilile, a few of which are upoji 
vellum, comprising those in Hebrew, CJreek, Latin, English, German, 
French, Irish, etc. 

The collection is particularly rich in early illuminatctl manuscripts, com- 
mencing with a matchless copy of the Greek Testament of the twelfth cen- 
tury. It also contains exquisite and rare Missal>: of the thirteenth, four- 
teenth and fifteenth centuries; the earliest printed copies of the Old and New 
Testaments; a magnificent Latin Bible, printed on vellum, in Venice, in 
1480 ; the first Bible printed in Greek, by Aldus, in 1518 ; rare and complete 
English Bibles, of 1589, 1541, 1549, 1568, 1585, and splendid copies of the 
present version of 1011; the " Hohe Bible, conteynyng the Old Testament 
and the ISTewe," of 1568, called the Bishop's Bible, and the magnificent Poly- 
glot of Walton, in eight volunies. The collection is likewise rich in the vari- 
ous editions of Shakespeare, commencing with a very valuable first folio of 
1623, as well as the works of Dante, beginning with the superb folio of 
1481, containing nineteen copper-plates. Copper-plates were used in print- 
ing in that year for the first time. Then there are at least one hundred 
and fifty copies of the earliest printing, among them specimens of the ear- 
liest of Aldine, Elzevir and Pynson, and coming down to the most superb 
specimens of modern times, including copies of works that took the medals 
at the French Exposition, to Avliich may be added rare specimens of rich 
and expensive binding. Natural history, too, is specially repre-ented in this 
collection. Here are found Audubon's Birds, elephant iblio, Gould's Hum- 
ming-birds, etc., besides a rare collection of illustrated works generally. 
4 



42 Svbhiyb'rhs of GiixGiixnatz. 

From this enumeration, meager as it is, the reader may form an idea of 
the richness of this collection of literature and art. To it might be added 
almost indefinitely books, works of art, souvenirs and curiosities. Among 
the latter is found the gold medal which the King of Prussia gave Hum- 
boldt. This, by the will of that illustrious man, passed to one of his ser- 
vants, who sold it to Asher & Co., booksellers of Berlin, from whom it was 
purchased by Mr. Probasco. 

To complete the rare attractions of Mr. Probasco's place, he enjoys to the 
full extent the splendid panorama of the valley to the northward from his 
re?:idence ; thus combining in one home, the sublime attractions of nature 
with the rich contributions of literature and art. 

Adjoining Mr. Probasco's on the west are the premises of George K. 
Shoenberger. Mr. Bhoenberger has forty acres of land, the general char- 
acteristics of which are not unlike the remainder of the locations that are 
found on the brow of this hill — Mr. Shoenberger, however, having for his 
house the advantage of a location upon a spur, that gives him a superb out- 
look. He selected for the new residence which he is now finishing a part of 
his lands admirably adapted to the purpose. The ground falls suddenly to 
the south-west and north, leaving the house on the point of a long spur run- 
ning from the east. 

The edifice wiU be one of the most expensive and beautiful within the 
suburbs of Cincinnati. The style of the building is Gothic, of the French 
domestic order. The work is approaching completion under the superin- 
tendence of the architect, James K. Wil-on. The house is built of blue 
limestone, with freestone trimmings of an elaborate character. The walls 
are uncoursed ashlar Avork. The entire building is one hundred and 
twenty-six feet in length by one hundred and twenty-six feet in width. 
This is the measurement from the outer points. The area of the ground 
floor is about ten thousand square feet. The building faces the north, and 
is entered through a magnificent cut-stone porch, twelve by eighteen feet, 
that opens immediately to the main hall, which is twenty feet wide and 
twenty-six feet deep. This hall leads to a lateral one, ten by fifty-two feet, 



CUfton. 43 

and is coiitinuou?; with one running south, ten feet wide l)y fifty-seven feet 
in length. The main hall is open to the roof, with a gallery around it at the 
second story. This is to be paneled, richly frescoed and oi3en-timbered at 
the ceiling. The mam hall opens to the parlor, on the riglit — a room fort\- 
feet long by twenty-seven feet wide. The front of this room consists of two 
magnificent bay windows. On the left of the hall is the library, eighteen 
liy twenty-six feet, to be finished to correspond with the remainder of the 
building. In the lateral hall, to which allusion has been made, will be the 
grand stairway. It will consist of two flights, approaching each other from 
opposite ends of the hall to a common landing, from Avhich retm-n flights 
will conduct to the second story. This arrangement will I)e unique and 
lieautiful. The same hall commmiicates with the picture gallery, which i.- 
immediately on the south. The latter will be fifty feet in length by twenty- 
five in width; it will have a ceiling not less than twenty feet in hight, and 
1)6 finished in a style to best serve the purposes for which it is to be used. 
Connecting with the main hall on the right will be a billiard room twenty 
l)y thirty feet, and, on the left, a dining room, eighteen by twenty-five feet, 
the latter connecting with a breakfast room by two sets of double doors. 
The porte cochere, sixteen by twenty-six feet, will be constructed almost 
entirely of cut freestone, and, in architectural beauty, will not be inferior 
to any other part of the building. The ceilings of the lower floor arc 
fifteen feet in hight ; of the second floor, fourteen feet. The arrangement 
of the rooms of the second floor conforms generally to that of the first. 
The bed chambers Avill be large, and furnished with all the modern conven- 
iences. The basement will contain kitchen, laundry, etc., with ample cel- 
lars. The general finish of the building inside will lie very elaborate and 
l)icturesque. Hard woods will enter largely into the composition, and the 
liost materials will be used throughout. The building is covered with slate. 
The main tower, rising from the end of the west hall, is fourteen l\v twent\' 
feet, with staircase-turret attached. The whole ri^es eighty feet from the 
ground. 

In front of the entire building there will be a mai>nificent .stone terrace. 



■44 8'LLhiLi''hs of CinGin-rLCbti . 

fifty feet Avide, upon which a carriage drive will be constructed. There will 
be a stone terrace on the east also, twenty feet wide. 

This description will give an idea of Avhat "Scarlet Oaks," which this 
coiuitry seat is called, will Ijecome, when Mr. Bhoenberger shall have com- 
|)leted a work which he has so liberally begun. 

Opposite ]Mr. Ellis', on the south side of Lafliyette avenue, is the residence 
of Mrs. Charles Neave. The location is a high and commanding one, and 
the surroundings attractive. There are six acres of handsomely-rolling 
lands, shaded with forest trees and ornamented with evergreens. 

Adjoining Mrs, Neave's, on the west, is the home of the Rev. Charles P. 
Mcllvaine, D.D., Bishop of Ohio. He has fourteen acres of land, well 
covered with forest trees of many years' growth. He has a comfortable 
mansion, free from ostentation, erected in 1845, surrounded by evergreens 
and shaded by the great oaks, among which one drives in approaching his 
residence. 

Adjoining this is the pleasant home of J. H. Hewson, erected on four 
aci'es of land, eight years ago. This has a broad veranda on the west, which 
is shaded by a spreading oak, with verandas also on the east, and portions of 
the north, front. The premises are cpiiet and pleasant, with a neat graveled 
drive leading to the dwelling. 

The next place is William C. Neff's, on the south side of the avenue, 
consisting of twenty-five acres of land, well covered with forest timber. 
Mr. Neff 1ms just completed one of the finest residences in Clifton. The 
new building is constructed of blue limestone, with walls of broken ashlar 
work and hmestone trimmings. Unlike jNIr. Probasco's, it is exclusively of 
limestone. The greater number of the corners of the building, including 
the windows and doors, are splayed, the margin rendered smooth with the 
chisel, and the panel rough-tooled. 

The main building, exclusive of veranda, is one hundred and twenty-two 
feet long by seventy-two feet at its greatest width, the medium width being 
fifty-eight feet. The hight of the main walls is thirty-two feet, and the 
whole buildinsj; is covered with a metallic roof. The tower, the summit of 



Ciifton. 4-' 

which is sixty-four feet from the ground, exdusive of the observatory, whicli 
adds twenty-one feet, is square, twenty-three feet from out to out, and has 
at each angle octagonal buttresses. The building faces the avenue, which 
is on the north. The ^oHe cocheve connects immediately 'with the main 
front, and is about nineteen feet square. This opens to a vestibule, whicli 
communicates immediately with the main hall, thirty-two feet in length and 
fifteen feet in width. 

The first room after entering the main hall is the library, thirty-two l^y 
twenty-three feet, with a large bay window looking to the north, and a 
French window opening upon the porch, which describes the entire west 
front of the edifice. To the rear of this is the parlor, thirty -six by twenty- 
three feet, ^nth a recess on the west of eleven by five feet. On the south 
the parlor terminates in a spacious bay window. The hall leads to a 
boudoir fifteen feet square, which has three sets of folding doors — one open- 
ing into the hall, the others into the parlor on the one side and the dining 
room upon the other. The latter room, in the south-east part of the main 
building, is thirty by twenty-two feet. The family room, separated from 
the dining room by a hall thirteen feet in width, is nineteen by twenty-five 
feet. It is furnished with a large bay window looking out from the main 
front, and on the south communicates with an arcade of Avood and glass, 
fourteen by twenty-six feet. To the south are the kitchens, pantry and ser- 
vants' dining room. The second floor conforms in general to the plan of 
the first. The attic is large and the cellar the size of the entire building. 

The whole edifice inside is finished with oak, white and black walnut, and 
supplied with hot and cold water. 

Mr. Neflf's house is set well back from the avenue, and commands a fine 
view of the country to the westward. The work has been under the imme- 
diate superintendence of the architect, Thomas Sargent. 

Near by is the residence of WUliam H. Shoenberger, which is an elegant 
edifice, trimmed with freestone, entered by a roomy porch, and partially 
surrounded by verandas. This was erected by John A. D. Burrows, al)Out 
the year 1847, and subsequently improved by K. A. Whetstone. Mr. 



46 ■ SlMhlMThs of CirLG'LTLlXCLt'b . 



Shoenberger has eighteen acres of land, and enjoys a fine hiwn, evergreens, 
flowers and forest trees, among which rustic seats have been erected. 

Beyond Mr. Shoenberger's, on the right, just as the avenue turns sharply 
to the left, is the place of the late R. B. Bowler. Here Mr. Bowler, in 
1844, purchased about seventy acres, upon which, in 1846, he built a resi- 
dence, to which he soon thereafter removed. At the gate is the porter's 
lodge, now occupied by Mr. Rice, the gardener of the premises. This 
passed, a smooth graveled drive, skirting the brow of the hill, leads to the 
family mansion. To the right is the valley far below, with beautiful gar- 
dens. Spring Grove Cemetery, the remote farms, the hill-sides and distant 
villages; to the left, the beautiful green lawn, intersected by graveled 
walks, with here and there an old forest tree, and, at intervals, groups of 
young native and foreign trees, which invite one to then- refreshing shade 
or their rich and rare foliage. The dwelhng is a large two-story brick edi- 
fice, stuccoed in imitation of stone, with broad porches looking out to the 
west and north, and an extensive terrace on the south. Though the house 
is superbly finished, and within has rare attractions, it is not the sole dis- 
tinguishing feature. Claiming a share of the honors of the place are the 
splendid landscapes that open up and down the valley; the distant hills of 
Kentucky upon the south and the highlands on the north ; the profusion of 
foreign forest and ornamental trees, and the ten extensive green-houses, 
filled with the richest flowers of our country and the rarest varieties of for- 
eign lands. In one house are collected ninety varieties of camelias, sixty 
of begonias, and the sago palm, with trunk a foot in diameter, together 
with a splendid specimen of the century plant. Then there is the orchid- 
house, containing the largest collection of orchids, or plants that live with- 
out soil or moisture, save what is contained in the atmosphere, that is found 
in the United States. 

In addition to these is the banana-house, containing eight banana trees, 
whose green, fleshy-looking trunks are now full grown. Here, the year 
round, may be seen the fruit of the tropics, abundant under the warm skies 
of the South, but rare enough amidst the ice and snows of this latitude. 



CUfbon. 47 

Among the rich collection of trees there are eleven varieties of magnolia 
one of the few variegated weeping lindens of the country ; the mountain, vari" 
egated, and striped-bark English maple; Tartarian maple; the curled-leaf, 
willow-leaf, walnut-leaf, black, weeping dwarf, and variegated English ash ; a 
great variety of the Englisli elm, besides five varieties of the linden. There 
are also the hardy pines of this country, England and Norway. This is but 
an allusion to a part of the rich collection Avhich stud these grounds. 

In the lake on these ^jremises are one pair each of black and white swans, 
the former now the oldest that are in this country. 

The Bowler property has had the same superintendent, James Cluxton, 
for twenty years. 

These premises, during the absence of Mrs. Bowler in Europo, have been 
the hospitable home of her brother, the Hon. Geo. H. Pendleton. 

On Crescent avenue, near the base of the hill, is the residence of J. C. 
Ringwalt — a substantial edifice, with tower, veranda on the south, and 
pleasant surroundings. Mr. Ringwalt has evergreens and shrul)bery, 
besides a pretty lakelet wliieh lie has formed in the ravine that passes 
through his premises in the rear. He ha^^ about eight acres of land, and 
enjoys a place of unusual retirement and beauty. 

Below him are the premises of Thomas L. Brown, consisting of six acres 
of land and a spacious dwelling, with comfortable surroundings. 

Beyond this is the old home of W. G. W. Gano, who, in tliis retired 
sj^ot, has lived from the earliest history of Clifton. 

On Resor avenue, after passing Theodore Cook's property, on the south 
side of the avenue, is the place of Mrs. C. W. Ellis, consisting of an ele- 
gant building, with Mansard roof and tower. Tlie grounds are handsome, 
and a rustic fence separates the property from the avenue. 

West of this is the dwelling and comfortable suri'oundings of General 
Yorke. 

Immediately adjoining are the premises of George W. McAlpin, consist- 
ing of two and a half acres of land, and a spacious residence, with French 



48 BibhiuTh s of Oznoii%n.cbi-L . 

roof, and verandas on the north and east. INIr. INIcAlpin's grounds are 
attractive, and his home one of comfort and taste. 

At the end of the avenue, on one of the most ehgible sites in CHfton, is 
the residence of David Gibson, built about sixteen years ago by Eeuben 
Resor. Mr. Gibson has here made very valuable improvements. The 
house is a spacious one, with an ample veranda, and an exterior both 
imposing and attractive. The interior finish of the building is of a beau- 
tiful cliaracter. The halls are wide and airy, and the rooms large and well 
finished. The landscape from this place, embracing Mt. Auburn and the 
valley of Millcreek, and parts of Avondale, is unusually attractive. 

Returning to Glenway, on the north side is the dwelling of James R. 
Smith, an edifice surrounded by verandas, about which vines and flowers 
are skillfully trained. The lands, comprising six acres, he high and hand- 
somely, and are well covered with forest trees and evergreens. Mr. Smith 
has also a beautiful lawn. 

Next on the east are about three acres, owned by S. Holmes, on which 
he has erected a handsome residence, with verandas looking both to front 
and west. His grounds are well shaded and set with evergreens and 
flowers. 

The next improvement on Glenway is that of S. C. Foster, with verandas 
frontiiig both on Glenway and Carthage road. This is a tasteful resi- 
dence, two stories, with Mansard roof, built on an elevation that rises sud- 
denly from the Carthage road on the east, and beautifully from Glen- 
way. Mr. Foster has twelve acres, well covered with young forest trees 
and evergreens. 

All these places to which we have alluded on Glenway have well-con- 
structed carriage drives intersecting their grounds, by Avhich the buildings 
are approached. 

North of Mr. Holmes', S. G. Sterling has recently erected a handsome 
dwelling. Mr, Sterling has a lot of four acres, which is approached by 
Biddle street, a short, new street running north between Mr. Holmes' and 
Mr, Foster's premises. 



CUfton. 49 

On the south-east corner of Glenway and Bvookline avenue, E. T. 
Kidd, of the Cincinnati Gazette, last year finished a very tasteful residence. 
The house is a two-story brick, amply supplied with verandas, and, in addi- 
tion, has what is beautiful, but rare in this country, a bay window at the 
angle. His dwelling is furnished with the modern improvements, and his 
couimanding lot of five acres gives him an outlc^ok which is exceedingly 
desirable. 

Between Brookline avenue and the Carthage road, Alexander Lewis has 
a tract of about twelve acres. Though jNIr. Lewis' residence is near and 
immediately above the Carthage road, it is api)roached through his ample 
grounds, which are entered at the intersection of Brookline and Ludlow 
avenues. He has a lakelet, plenty of fruit trees, and a very eligible 
location. 

On the Carthage road is the place of Judge William Johnson, who has 
twenty-eight acres, upon which is a stone dwelling, built many years ago. 

On Ludlow avenue is the dwelling of Willitun ^Veighell and the new 
residence of P. McAvoy; on the south-east corner of Clifton avenue, the 
neat dwelling of P. ^L Hirst; diagonally opposite the latter, the Bryant 
premises, lately much improved. 

On the south side of Ludlow avenue, west of Clifton avenue, is the new 
residence of Richard Smith, of the Cincinnati Gazette, Few persons have 
been so fortunate iu the selection of sites. From an elevated position, jNIr. 
Smith looks out upon the splendid improvements on the north, and enjoys 
the distant landscapes in which this locality is so rich. His residence is of 
brick, two stories, Avith observatory, and spacious portico looking to the ave- 
nue. His parlors, librar}', and every thing, indeed, pertaining to the prem- 
ises, are characterized by simple elegance. Tlie entire house is suppUed 
with hot and cold water, and no appointment seems wanting to make it one 
of the most complete suburban homes. 

Following, successively, are the cottage of Mr. Nash ami the residences 
of Charles jVI. Shays and John G. Brotherton. 

StiU farther west, Howell Gano has purchased ten acres, and has erected 



50 BiyihiMThs of CiTboinncbtz . 



a pleasant frame dwelling, which he will occupy until he makes the more 
valuable improvements, which are in contemplation. 

On the opposite side of Ludlow avenue, Theophilus Jones has a lot of 
five and three-quarters acres, and a desirable residence. 

Not remote from tliis, but on Lafayette avenue, are the premises of 
Daniel Bowdle, consisting of twenty-six acres of land and two dwellings — 
one occupied by his son and the other by himself. 



CHURCHES. 

The first churcli was erected in Clifton twenty years ago, and was known 
as CHfton Chapel. This was the old buUding recently vacated, at the inter- 
section of Lafayette and Crescent avenues. In this Bishop Mcllvaine 
officiated uutU Rev. Wm. F. Lloyd was procured, about wliich time a par- 
ish was regularly organized. This was occuj^ied until the 19th of January, 
1868, when Calvary Church was completed. This new church edifice is ele- 
gant in its proportions and beautiful in design. It is built of blue limestone, 
with rich freestone quoins and angles. The general style is Gothic, with 
nave and small transepts. Looking to the avenue is a cluster of elegant, 
narrow, longitudinal windows. The roof is steep and covered with slate. 
The tower, for symmetry and elegance, has among the smaller church edi- 
fices of the country, few equals. Unlike the less enduring slate, with which 
many towers and spires are now covered, it is built of freestone to the very 
summit, and conveys to the mind the idea of grace combined with solidity 
and safety. Throughout generations, without the interposition of mechanic 
or artisan, it will stand the same enduring monument to the taste and liber- 
ality of the people. The interior is neat and tasteful. The pews are open, 
and the wood-work is composed largely of oak and other white woods. The 
entire cost of the edifice was about $60,000. 

This congregation has also a parsonage, located on Crescent avenue, 
between Mr. Ring^valt's premises and Mr. Buchanan's. It is a neat cot- 
tage, nestled in a little nook of about two acres, with pleasant surroundings. 



C Lift on. ol 

The rector is Rev. G. D. E. Mortimer. The Sabbath-school is in charge of 
Caldwell Neave. 

SCHOOLS. 

Clifton has an excellent public school. The old building, a two-story 
l)rick, erected about ten years ago, has recently been supplanted by a build- 
ing that would do honor to any place. This is known as Resor Academy 
and Clifton Literary Institute. It was completed in February, 1870, and on 
the evening of the second of that month was dedicated with approj^riate cere- 
monies, in the presence of a large audience. The edifice is a very large two- 
.story brick, with a main building presenting its fi-ont to Chfton avenue, 
and commodious wings stretching on either side. The hea^y brick walls are 
relieved by ashlar Avork of freestone. A heavy square tower rises from the 
south wing, bearing a bell of considerable dimensions, and also displaying a 
town clock of unique construction. Besides being w'ell supplied with rooms 
for study and recitation, the building contains one of the most elegant halls 
in the comity. In this the citizens of this delightful suburb have their lec- 
tures, concerts, etc., and by its aid have little trouble in finding compensa- 
tion for absence from the amusements of the city. 

The school has been until recently under the charge of Mr. S. G. Ster- 
ling, with one female assistant, Ish. Sterling was a teacher in Clifton 
twenty years. No greater tribute could be paid any teacher than to employ 
him for a period so long. The school has been eminently successful, and it 
is largely due to his untiring labors. 

A wonderful advance has taken place in the price of lauds in this locality 
since public attention was first turned in this direction. 

In the year 1844 James Robb, of New Orleans, a prominent banker, now 
of New York City, purchased about sixty-five acres of land, comprising 
what is now the Bennett, Taylor and Ellis property, for which he paid 665 
per acre. In 1849 this was sold by him for $275 per acre, and six years 
afterward a portion of the same lands was sold for $1,000 per acre. Early 



52 SiMhiMThs of 0^->^G^7^^^0yt^. 



in 1868 lands belonging to the Bryant estate, on Clifton and Ludlow ave- 
nues, sold at an average of about $3,000 per acre. This indicates that 
eligible lands in this locality have increased about forty-six hundred per cent, 
in twenty-four years. 

Tlie following gentlemen are officers of Clifton for 1870-71 : 
Mayor — Robert Hosea. 
Clerk— S. G. Sterling. 

Trustees of Council — William Resor, James Bugher, Henry Pro- 
BASCO, Thomas Sherlock, Richard Smith, S. C. Foster. 
School Directors— Gazzam Gano, J. L. Wayne, Jr., Theodore Cook. 



j:.Oi.^-i;Q-E; jiiJ,i 




OLLEGE HILL is a name with which nearly every one acquainted 
with Cincinnati is fomiliar. The location of one of the largest 
,, W' female schools in the West; the seat of a once popular college, 
(^eJ and at an early period the possessor of a large academy from which 
the former grew, it needs, as an educational point, no introduction. 

In the history of the place the Gary family have performed an important 
part. ]Much of the land upon ^\•hich the village is built was originally owned 
by Wm. Gary. Freeman G. Gary, the son, was the founder of Gary's Acad- 
emy and Farmers' College, and both he and his brother have been identified 
with the educational history and progress of the place from the beginning. 
College Hill is about five miles from the northern limits of the city, a few 
degrees west of north from the court-house, and embraces a little less than a 
section of land. It includes a fraction more than the west half of section thirty 
of Millcreek township, besides about one-third of section thirty-six, which lies 
immediately west. The place is square, with the exception that nearly 
thirty acres, belonging to Zebulon f^trong, are taken froni the south-east cor- 
ner. William Gary, as far back as September 8, 1813, purchased four 
hundred and ninety-one and one-half acres, from section thirty, of Jabez G. 
Tunis, who procured his title from Xehemiah Tunis. The latter purchased 
both this and section thirty-six from John Cleves Synnnes, in October, 179(1. 
For this large tract Mr. Gary paid S3,440, a sum which would now scarcely 



54 Szohzoi-Jjs of CzThGznrzcL-t'b. 

buy an eKgible lot in the same locality. Its schools created the village. 
Allusion has been made to Gary's Academy, which was established by and 
named for Freeman G. Cary. A good school brought with it, one by one, 
desirable families, who came to the place to educate their children and enjoy 
the general benefits to be derived from proximity to educational institutions. 

About the year 1855 many Cincinnati ^^eople began to feel like seeking 
country homes. At this time there came to College Hill such men as 
Charles Cist, D. B. Pierson, G. Y. Roots, Rev. Clement E. Babb, George 
C. Knight, Norris S. Knight, Charles E. Cist, J. C. C. Holenshade, and 
A. D. E. Tweed. 

It was not long before it began to be seen how railroads were to almost 
annihilate distance, equalize values, and sweeji population out over the hills, 
where they could have the fresh air of heaven and revel amid the beauties 
of nature. College HiU had enterprising citizens, who took hold of matters 
in earnest, and soon gave the village a new life. An event trifling in itself 
had not a little to do in acquainting people with the singular beauty and 
desirableness of this locahty. This was the opening to boarders, during the 
summer vacation, of the Ohio Female College. Hundreds visited College 
Hill for the first time; and many, after having enjoyed the cool nights, 
pure air and splendid landscape, returned to the city with reluctance. 
People learned, too, that though the hiUs were high, they were by no means 
as difiicult of ascent as the Alps. Thus iDublic attention was directed to 
College Hill, and a new impetus given to its progress. 

In 1866 the village was incorporated, and since that time the authorities 
have entered upon a general system of improvement. Sti-eets have been 
laid out and macadamized, sidewalks authorized and constructed, new 
school buildings projected, and a general advance made in all that pertains 
to the growth and prosperity of a village. 

The location of College Hill is among the highest in Hamilton county. 
The air is salubrious, and the locality one generally of remarkable health. 
The scenery is not excelled, if, indeed, it is equaled, by any about C'incin- 



College Hill. 55 

nati. From tlie eligible points of the hiU, panoramas are spread out which 
almost rival mountain regions in beauty and extent. 



FARMERS COLLEGE. 

Farmers' College is an institution that has been well known throughout 
Ohio and adjoining states for twenty years. It has seen times of great 
prosperity, when its halls were crowded with students, and again when it 
has had little more than an existence. The effort, years ago, to endow an 
agricultural professorship was by no means successful, and the college 
labored under the embarrassment of a debt it could not pay. This was the 
situation five years ago, when an effort was made by its friends to relieve it 
of its indebtedness and restore it to its former prosperity. It was thought 
by them tlie better com'se to convert the unprofitable real jDroperty of the col- 
lege into money with which the debts could be paid, and to use the residue 
for the benefit of the school. Accordingly, an act was procured from the 
legislature enabhng them to seU the lands, and, after the payment of the 
debts, to provide an irreducible fund, the interest of which was to be faith- 
fully used for the conduct of the school. The land used for agricultural 
and horticultural purposes was sold under this authority, and fi-om the 
ninety-two acres was realized a sum sufficient to pay the indebtedness and 
leave a balance of about fifty-two thousand dollars, which will constitute a 
fund, the interest of which will be a source of constant revenue to the insti- 
tution. In 1867-8 two professors were employed, J. C. Brodfuehrer and 
jNIr. Hoffman. Since then Mr. Hoffman has retired and C\ H. Gerard 
become liis successor. The average attendance during the past two years 
has been about thirty-five scholars. Professor C. D. Curtis was re-elected 
President of the Faculty at the reorganization, and has held the position to 
the present time. It wiU thus be seen that this institution of learning is 
placed in a situation where it can, with proper management on the part of 
those engaged in the actual educational labor of the school, either tui-n its 
attention to creating an academy with facilities for taking a fi'ont rank 



56 KDZohuyThs of CijzGZTzizcLti. 

among such institutions of the land, or even aspiring to a collegiate position 
iiot inferior to the one occupied by it during its palmiest days. 

The building is one hundred and twenty feet front by forty-eight feet in 
depth, is three stories, and is j)i"ovided vdth a large chapel and two good, 
well-furnished society rooms. 



OHIO FEMALE COLLEGE. 

The charter of this institution was procured in 1848, Justice ]\IcLean 
being the first president of the board of trustees. Originally it was an 
individual enterprise, with a board of trustees having only advisory power. 
This state of things continued until the year 1865, at which time the prop- 
erty was owned by Samuel F. Cary, Franklin Y. Vail and Joseph Brown. 
Late in this year the interests of the two former were purchased by the 
board of trustee-, witli means raised l)y subscription for this purpose. In 
the following year Mr. Brown's interest was also purchased, when the entire 
institution was vested in the president and board of trustees. 

Tins disposition of the i^roperty was regarded as a favorable change, and 
the school was progressing admirably under the ncAv administration, when, 
on the 23d of April, 1868, the main building Avas completely destroyed by 
fire, it being the second time a calamity of this kind had befallen the 
institution. 

AVhile the building was yet burning, a meeting of the board of trustees 
and citizens was called at the house of J. C C. Holenshade, at which, with 
a courage and liberality equally commendable, it was determined to con- 
tinue the school to the close of that collegiate year. The citizens generally 
came forward, and made provision at their own houses for the houseless 
young ladies until the close of the following June. 

At the same meeting it was also determined to make an attempt to rebuild. 
Energetic efforts were at once put forth, and within a few months a new 
building arose out of the ashes of the old, far exceeding it in beauty of 
architecture and convenience of arrangement. 



OolleQ;e Hill. 57 



The new building is constructed of brick, with freestone (juoins and 
trimmings, tower and INIansard roof The style is composite. The build- 
ing has, including the basement, four stories, and consists of three divis- 
ions — the central sixty by sixty-five feet, and two wings forty by fifty feet 
each. In the central part are the reception room, lilirary and reading 
rooms, oflices of president, superintendent, board of trustees, etc. These 
are all in the basement and on the first floor. 

In the north Aving, occupying both the basement and the first floor, is the 
chapel, the full size of the Aving. The remainder of the first floor is devoted 
to recitation and society rooms. In the south Aving, in the basement 
is the dining room, the full size of that Aving. The rest of the building is 
used for dormitories. Each room is large enough for tAvo young ladies, and 
has one or two AvindoAvs hung Avith A'enetian blinds, Avith transom in the door, 
and a complete system of A-entilation. Running around the entire building, 
on each floor, saA'e A\here interrupted by the chapel and dining room, are 
c:)rridors, eight feet Avide, by which all the dormitories are brought into 
direct and convenient communication Avith the chapel and recitation rooms. 
The rooms for the teachers are so arranged as to command a full view of the 
corridor Avith A\hich they are connected. Each floor is proAaded Avith water 
closets, and the bath rooms are supplied Avith hot and cold Avater. The entire 
building is heated by steam generated in a separate building, and the cook- 
ing is done in an apartment remoA'cd from the main structure, so that there 
is no fire Avhatever about the building. Fire plugs and hose are provided 
cm each floor, so that a recurrence of the late calamity Avill hardly be pr»- 
sible. The building is lighted Avith gas, and furnished Avith all the modern 
couA'eniences. 

The toAver is called the Alunma? ToAver, each gi'aduate of the institution 
having furnished one of the stone quoins that enter into its construction. 
This is surmounted by an observatory, and the roof of the center building 
is surrounded by an iron lialustrade, in order to allow the area to be used for 
promenading. 

The grounds surroundiiiir the building consist of scA-enteen acres of hand- 



58 S'U'h'bL'rhs of GinQinixcLt'i . 

somelv-i'olling lands, with well-grown forest, shade and ornamental trees, 
and an artificial lake. 

In 1868 Rev. N. C Burt, D.D., was elected to the presidency of the 
institution. His well-known abilities, varied attainments, high character 
and excellent reputation, all combined to make the selection one of singular 
fitness, and to secure the success of the college under his administration. 



AVENUES. 

The principal streets are the old Hamilton road, now called Hamilton 
avenue, and Colerain avenue, which leaves the Hamilton road at the site 
of the old Gary's Academy. The former is sixty feet wide, well macadam- 
ized, and has graveled sidewalks, ten feet in width, finished as far north as 
Linden avenue. Colerain avenue, which bears ofi' to the west from Ham- 
ilton avenue, is fifty feet wide. The streets are macadamized and sidewalks 
constructed generally eight feet in width. Running across from Hamilton 
to Colerain avenue, immediately opposite Farmers' College, is Locust ave- 
nue, recently well graded and macadamized. On the north side of this is 
the post-office and two or three dwelhngs, while on the south is a beautiful 
locust grove of perhaps two acres. The next avenue, on the north, run- 
ning east and west, is Laurel, fifty feet in width. Running parallel with 
this is Maple avenue, sixty feet wide. Next is Cedar avenue, the western 
part of which was laid out in 1866. Nearly all of these new avenues have 
young shade trees upon either side, affording already an earnest of the com- 
fort and beauty which are ultimately to be enjoyed in this part of College 
Hill. Last, on the north, is North Bend road, which runs east and west 
on the section line, and is the northern boundary of the village. About a 
fourth of a mile from the western limits of the corporation, Knight avenue, 
formerly Badgley road, intersects, at right angles. North Bend road. This 
avenue runs south, and intersects Colerain avenue, near the residence of Mr. 
Knight. The lands in this locality have all been laid oflf in large lots, upon 
which the owners contemplate the erection of dwellings at no distant day. 



College Hill. 59 



After reaching the Colerain road, having passed Kiiight uveinie, Badgley 
road is attained. This leads southwardly to Cuniininsville. 

Thus have been named the avenues west of Hamilton avenue. But the.'e 
are not all. Leaving the latter at the Presbyterian Church is Linden ave- 
nue, a well-paved street, that runs to the east corporation line, and con- 
tinues thence to Spring Grove Cemetery. Cedar avenue and Xorth Bend 
road run eastwardly from Hamilton avenue, the former intersecting the 
Arnold and the latter the Winton road. 

A street railway has been projected from Cuniminsville to jMt. Pleasant, 
via Badgley valley, west of the HamiUon road. It is intended to reach Col- 
lege Hill in the western part of the village, and will, if completed, not onh- 
open up at once a new and popular avenue along the route, but give an 
increased impetus to the growth of tliis place. 



RESIDENCES. 

College Hill can boast of u nundjer of handsome residences. That of 
J. C. C. Holenshade, for beauty of situation and architectural grace, will 
bear a favorable compariscm with any about Cincinnati. Those fomiliar 
with College Hill will remember this as the former residence of Freeman 
G. Gary. It was purchased in 1861 by Mr. Holenshade, who at once began 
improvements, Avhicli liave materially contributed to the beauty of the 
premises. A wide stone pavement, skirted by shade trees, extends along 
the entire front on Hamilton avenue, while from his residence the lawn, 
with its green carpet, rolls aAvay to the east and south in graceful undula- 
tions. AVell-grown evergreens adorn the grounds, and occasional fruit 
trees furnish ample shade, while they combine utility with comfort and 
beauty. South of the dwelling, near the avenue, is an artificial lake. 
The house is a large two-story brick building, with a basement of cut free- 
stone, which, being principally above ground, gives the edifice substantially 
three stories. The entire front is embraced by a porch supported by Cor- 
inthian ])illars. In the interior arrangement comfort and good taste have been 



60 BiAyhuyThs of O'inG'LTincLt'b . 

equal]}' consulted. From the observator}' one looks upon the village spread 
out at his feet, while in the distance suburban places, villages and farms 
succeed each other, until he asks himself if there is really any limit to the 
beautiful landscapes that seem every where to unfold themselves. 

South-east of Mr. Holenshade's, on the opposite side of Hamilton avenue, 
is the residence of D. B. Pierson, erected three years ago, decidedly tasteful, 
and surrounded by beautiful grounds. Mr. Pierson has about ten acres of 
land and a fine lawn, through which a well-kept drive winds to his house. 
He enjoys a charming view in the direction of Cincinnati. 

North of Mr. Pierson's are the residences of the Rev. Robert Crossette, 
INIrs. Sarah Wilson and G. F. Sadd, all of them comfortable homes, on lots 
of from four to five acres, with beautiful surroundings. Immediately north of 
the Female College, on Hamilton avenue, is the residence of Mr. Hayden, 
]"»leasantlv situated on a lot of about two acres. Oi^posite this, on the west 
side of the avenue, is the dwelling of Dr. A. G. McChesney, a neat, com- 
fortable home. North of the public school building, on the east side of the 
avenue, are the residences of Lawrence Deininger, Amos Worthington and 
John W. Hammitt, all of them tasteful — the two latter on large lots, ^vitli 
beautiful shrubbery. On the west side of the avenue, near the northern 
boundary of tlie village, is the old residence of William Cary, by whose 
widow it i-; yet occupied. 

On the north-west corner of Hamilton and Laurel avenues John R. Davy 
has about seven acres of the Farmers' College tract, upon which, in 1868, 
lie ei'ected a fine residence. It is a handsome structure, of the Italian 
style, uniting elegance and convenience in all its appointments. From the 
tower a magnificent prospect is obtained. Mr. Davy has a beautiful site for 
his dwelling, having procured that part of the farm upon which a large 
amount of money and labor Avas expended in creating a botanical garden 
in connection with the college. The lands lie handsomely, and are well cov- 
ered with all kinds of shade and ornamental trees. This is one of the most 
desirable places in College Hill. 

Among the notable places of C'ollege Hill is the well-known one of tlie 



College IIzll. 61 

Hun. Samuel F. C'arv. Occupying u good position uj)on tlie hill, which 
begins to descend .southwardly near this point, he enjoys a fine landscape 
to the south-east. His dwelling is unpretentious but neat, and surrounded 
l\v beautifid shrul)bery. He has about twenty-seven acres of land. 

Immediately upon the south is the property of the Davis heirs, now occu- 
pied by O. J. AVilson. The grounds, consisting of five acres, are covered 
with shrubbery and shade trees. 

On Colerain avenue are some pleasant homes. That of the late Cha.^. Cist, 
on the east, is a neat dwelling, surrounded by well-shaded, ample grounds. 

On this avenue, too, is the former residence of the late General i-'. J. 
McGroarty, a snug cottage, ^vith a veranda in front, well covered with vines 
and flowers. The neatness of the house is no less observable than the com- 
plete order and good taste displayed in its sm'roun dings. 

On the north side of Laurel avenue, near Colerain, Mrs. Wild and Pro- 
fessor J. H. Wilson have pleasant homes. 

Here, too, Robert Simpson is no^v• finishing a two-stor}' frame residence, 
with tower and ample verandas. The new building is tasteful and 
attractive. 

On Cedar avenue, where it makes the angle, E. P. Strong, in 1869, 
erected a neat two-story frame cottage. The site is among the best on Col- 
lege Hill. 

Captain A. D. E. Tweed, on (Jolerain avenue, has one of the finest sites 
on the hill. It is said to be exceeded in altitude by but one location in 
Hamilton county. From the observatory of his dwelling a panorama of 
rare beauty and extent is unfolded. The Kentucky hills ai-e in open view 
for miles; the lower part of Cincinnati can be easily seen ; while the fine 
suburbs of the city complete a picture wliicli certainly luis no superior in 
Cincimiati's surroundings. Captain Tweed has twenty acres of land, and a 
spacious dw'elling, erected in 1>^(>5. 

Among the handsome new places of the hill is that recently sold by 
George C. Knight to Mrs. Sarah J. Kennedy, on the corner of Colerain 
and Knight avenues, situated ui)on a beautiful elevation, from which are 



62 SzohiiThs of Ci^noinncLti. 

enjoyed extensive views. There are here a fine conservatory and flower 
garden, and a pleasant lawn. 

Immediately east, fronting Cedar avenue, is the residence of James 
Skardon, erected in 1867, occup}ang a very eligible position, on five acres 
(if land that decline gracefully to the south. 

On the south-west corner of Coleram avenue and Badgley road is the 
neat cottage of Captain Kates, with shrubbery and pleasant surroundings. 
On the west side of the latter road is the comfortable home of George 
Henshaw, while immediately adjoining it on the south is a new dwelling 
erected by Mr. Knight, who has also erected at the head of this road, on 
Colerain avenue, a tasteful residence, with such appointments as make it a 
desirable property. Farther south, on a site of rare beauty, is the resi- 
dence of Wm. C. Huntington. 3Ir. Huntington looks down in the direc- 
tion of the Ohio river, upon a landscape of unusual beauty, enjoying, upon 
the one hand, the prospect of his own farm of sixty acres, and, upon the 
other, the handsomely-rolling lands of Mrs. Jane J. Kennedy, the estate of 
E. C. Morris, and Charles E. Cist, that lie off to the south and east. 

On the south-east corner of Colerain avenue and Badgley road is u 
dwelling owned by Mrs. Jane J. Kennedy, well sii})plied with verandas and 
surrounded by a profusion of shrubbery. The place is a very pretty one, 
and eligibly located. 

On Colerain avenue Mr. D'Oisy has a tasteful c(jttage. 

The home of the Rev. E. L. Davies, on the corner of Locust and Cole- 
rain avenues, is a pleasant one, surrounded with flowers and plants of our 
own country, besides many valuable exotics. 

Daniel Flannn, on the east side of Colerain avenue, between Maple and 
Cedar avenues, has a neat frame residence and five acres of eligible land. 

At the intersection of Colerain and Hamilton avenues, N. 8killman, last 
year erected a large frame storeroom, to the north and rear of which he has 
also a neat two-story dwelling. 

On Linden avenue there are several pleasant dwellings. Among them 
are those of ]\Irs. Dr. Litzenberg, Mrs. S. B. Brooks ( now occupied by O. F. 



College Hzll. 63 

Gordon), Prof. Jacob Tuckernian (occupied by Mrs. Locke), Josiah 
Wilder, Frank Howard (the present residence of C. S. Bates), and Mrs. 
Williams. On the south-east corner of this and Hamilton avenue is the 
residence of Mrs. Judge Miller. 

The catalogue of property holders, with tlieir improvements, is now well 
nigh complete. A few places, however, remain, to which not more than an 
allusion has been made, namely: The post-office, on Locust avenue, pre- 
sided over by Edward DeSerisy; the tasteful home of W. E. Watson, on 
the same avenue ; and the pleasant dwelling of Mrs. Wheelock. 

On the east side of Colerain avenue are the residences occupied by Mrs. 
Snowden and A. A. Upson. Near the junction of this and Hamilton 
avenue is the dwelling of Rev. W. H. Rogers. 

On the North Bend road, near the north-eastern coi-porate limits, E. I\ 
Strong has a place of twelve acres, with a pleasant dwelling, surrounded by 
shrubbery. 

J. C. Morrison, on Knight avenue, has a nice two-story frame cottage 
and an eligible lot of six acres. The surroundings are noticeable for their 
neatness, as well as natural beauty. 

Still farther west, but on Colerain avenue, William Donnelly is prepar- 
ing to build, and will, during the approaching season, put up a fine resi- 
dence. 

But we must not forget the ancient landmarks ; and other persons, who 
are almost, yet not quite citizens, will forgive this exception. Though the 
venerable Zebulon Strong is outside the corporate limits, his place of thirty 
acres is contiguous on the south. The old farm house is simple and plain, 
but nature offers what palatial splendor can not supply, distant landscapes 
of the rarest beauty. 

CHURCHES. 

The First Presbyterian Church was organized in the year 1858, by thirty- 
three members of the Presbyterian ( 'luircli of Mt. Pleasant. One of the prime 
movers in the matter was the Rev. \\. H. Bishop, D.D., then of Farmer.s' 



64 BiyLhuy'/^hs of CiixGinizcLt', 



College. For some time following they worshiped in the college chapel, 
from which they removed to their present church edifice about fifteen years 
ago. Tlieir i)astor, the Rev. E. L. Davies, who has recently resigned to enter 
upon another field of labor, has been with them about five years. The 
church building is a capacious brick structure, well finished, with gallery, 
white pine pews, good furniture, neat lecture room on the same floor, and a 
thousand-dollar organ. Like the beautiful church at Clifton, the spire is 
the prominent object of the village. 

Grace Episcopal Church was organized in 1866. The congregation occu- 
pied the chapel of Farmers' College until early in 1867, when they com- 
pleted, on the site of the old Cary's Academy, on the corner of Hamilton 
and Colerain avenues, at an expense, including lot, of $16,000, a beautiful 
brick echfice, which is a great credit to the society. Its extreme length, 
including porch, is seventy-eight feet ; length of transept, sixty-five feet. 
The pews are neatly constructed of pine and black Avalnut, and cushioned 
Avith red damask. The lecturns are neat pieces of workmanship, in black 
walnut, while the white marble font, which stands just outside the chancel, 
is a work of simple elegance which every one will admire who visits the 
church. The rector is the Rev. R. T. Kerfoot, formerly of Dayton, Ohio. 

There is, in addition, a church erected on Cedar avenue, for the use of 
the various denominations of the colored people. Service is held here from 
time to time, and a colored school, in charge of the Rev. W. H. Rogers, 
occupies the building during the week. 

Both the Presbyterian and Episcopal Churches sustain good Sabbath- 
schools. The understanding between the denominations is such, too, that 
each helps the otlier in this commendable Avork. 



PUBLIC SCHOOLS. 

While this pleasant village is distmguished for its colleges, its public 
schools have by no means been neglected. Immediately north of the Pres- 
b}terian Church, on Hamilton avenue, in an unpretending brick structure, 



College Hzll. . 65 

an excellent school has been in operation, in charge of Miss Harriet N. 
Wilson, aided by two assistants. There is a large attendance of scholars, 
and the course is one that reflects credit on all concerned. The present 
(quarters are not equal to their wants, Init tliis will soon he remedied by the 
erection of a spacious new school buikUiiM, I'oi- whicli funds have been 
accumulating during a period of several years. The authorities have 
already acquired a lot for the purpose, on Maple avenue. 

The most direct route to College Hill is by way of the Hamilton turn- 
pike. Omnibuses leave the city regularly fjr this place, and also connect 
several times during the day with the trains at C'umminsville, which is two 
miles from College Hill. 

The village has a population of about eight hundred, and has the 
advantage of having neither liquor shop nor any tiling of the kind A\itliin 
its limits. A better index to the character of its population could, per- 
haps, not be found than the latter fact. The society is good, and must 
continue so. To a certain extent, indeed, it revolves about the educational 
institutions, and finds them a never-failing source of protit and plea. ure. 

The mimicipal ofticers of College Hill for 1870-71 are as follows: 
3Iayor — Cyrus S. Bates. 

Council — Long Term : D. B. Piekson, W. C. Huntington, E. De- 
Serisy. Short Term : Eber Strong, A. A. Upson, R. Simpson. 
Recorder — W. S. Ro<xErs. 
Marshal — E. B. Stout. 
Treasurer— I. X. Skillman. 



ii^A^T wmm mi^^' 




NE of the distinguishing features of the environs of Cincinnati is 
the wonderful variety of surface, prospect, and advantage. Here 
is a place almost like a city, with every thing indicative of a great 
population near at hand ; there is the collection of cozy residences, 
the type of some charming village in the interior. The visitor passes both 
of these, and suddenly emerges into the full enjoyment of rural simpHcity. 
Beautiful homes, broad fields, splendid groves of native forest trees, greet 
him with a welcome which language can not convey. The latter describes 
generally the suburb to which this chapter wUl be devoted. Until 1866 all 
that territory east of the village that had gathered in the vicinity of Lane 
Seminary was known as East Walnut HUls. Many persons yet speak of 
Woodburn as a part of East Walnut Hills, but it should be borne in mind 
that the latter name is now- properly applied to territory east of Millcreek 
township, the eastern boundary of that township being also the eastern 
boundary of Woodburn. 

The following gentlemen are the jorincipal property-holders of East Wal- 
nut Hills. 

Messrs. P. W. Strader, John S. Taylor, A. A. Bennett, George M. 
Hord, John Cinnamon, L. B. Harrison, W. W. Scarborough, William 
Hooper, W. McRoberts, Wm. x'Vubery, Wm. Wood, W. A. Goodman, 
Wm. Williamson, Edward Sargent, J. C. Ritchie, John L. Stettinius, F. 



East W)Cbln-but Hills. 67 



P. Andersou, A. Kattenhorn, M. Harth, iSIrs. Philip Grandiii, Robert 
Shaw, Wm. H. Thayer, Rufus King, J. H. Weston, George Martm, John 
Kilgour, C. B. Foote, Jos. Longworth, N. C. McLean, G. Henderson, and 
Robert Burnet. 

Something more than three miles north-east of the court-house in Cincin- 
nati, the Madisonville turnpike enters East Walnut Hills at the east line of 
Mrs. Perkins' property, and continues thence in a north-easterly direction. 
About a fifth of a mile beyond Woodburn is the intersection of the Grandin 
road, and at the south-east corner of those roads stands the residence of 
W. A. Goodman, a substantial and attractive structure, erected about ten 
years ago. The house is a spacious and convenient one, well finished 
throughout, and is one of the pleasantest homes in this suburb. A broad 
veranda looks out over ornamented grounds and down to the Grandin road, 
and a graveled carriao-e drive affords communication ^\•ith the Madisonville 
turnpike. The gradual rising of the land from the road to the building 
makes the situation a connnanding one. Mr. Goodman's grounds are hand- 
somely laid out, and, to the rear of his tract of fifteen acres, there are forest 
trees, which, during the summer, furnish a charming background. 

On the Madisonville turnjjike, immediately opposite Mr. Goodman's 
place, is a lot of ten acres, the property of G. Henderson, one of the finest 
locations in East Walnut Hills. Beyond this is the comfortable residence 
of Mrs. Holroyd, on a lot of six acres ; and near this, on the same side of 
the road, the dwelling of J. C. Caldwell. Adjoining these are the premises 
of AVilliani Williamson, consisting of eight acres of land and a good dwell- 
ing. The lawn is beautiful, and the property a desirable one. 

To the rear of this, a short distance, Charles B. Foote, President of the 
Commercial Bank, purchased, four years ago, for about $500 per acre, sixty 
acres of land, to which he has since made valuable additions. The old 
building that stood here he has greatly improved and converted into a pleas- 
ant home ; but this he intends to occupy only until he can erect new build- 
ings on a very fine site some distance back. He is now engaged in improv- 



<38 BiLhiLi-^hs of UzTZGinTLCbtz. 

ing his grounds, and, among other things, is making a chain of small lakes 
through their entire length. 

Just opposite is one of the finest residences on East Walnut Hills, that of 
Edward Sargent. In 1865 Mr. Sargent purchased the Matthew Hart 
property, a tract of eighteen acres, which, with the improvements that were 
subsequently removed, cost $35,000. The grounds swell gently from the 
road to the position selected for his residence. Here, in 1866, he put up a 
l)rick edifice trimmed with brown stone, with Mansard roof and observatory, 
and veranda upon the south and west. The internal arrangement of the 
house is very complete. The sitting rooms have been made with a ^^ew to 
comfort ; the parlors are roomy ; and the library, with its well-stocked 
shelves, looking out upon a beautiful rural scene, is a place where a man 
fond of books and nature might delight to s^Dend his life. A splendid 
landscape is to be seen from his observatory. There is neither mountain nor 
river, but the eye wanders over farm, grove, and hillside, which follow each 
other in rapid succession, until vision is arrested by the woods skirting the 
horizon from fifteen to twenty miles away. 

In the direction of MadisonvUle is the neat two-story brick dwelling of 
Wm. Baker, on the Linwood road. On the south side of the latter avenue 
is the tasteful cottage of J. Ritchie, erected upon a lot of about fifteen 
acres, and surrounded by shrubbery and flowers. Immediately adjoining 
this on the east, are the premises of J. L. Stettinius. Here, Mr. Stettinius, 
six years ago, purchased, at the rate of $300 per acre, twenty acres of land, 
upon which he erected, of the blue limestone of this region, a stately resi- 
dence, with window caps and other external ornaments of tbe same mate- 
rial. The main entrance from the west leads at once to a broad, beautiful 
liall, from which one passes readily into parlor, library, and dining room — 
spacious apartments, finished with pine and black walnut. The land rises 
from the road, and the house commands a delightful view of hill and dale, 
woodland and gentle slope. Looking from the road up the green acclivity, 
this house has the most substantial appearance of any in East Walnut Hills. 
The color imparts to it an air of sobriety and quiet comfort well comporting 



IlcLst W^Gblnubt Hills. 69 



witli the eiidurino' luiture of tlie materials, ui)on wliieli tlie tootli of time 
may, for generations, gnaw in vain. 

A short distance beyond is the property of John Kilgour, a farm of one 
hundred and sixty acres, purchased about eight years ago for $45,000. 
]Many will, at the mention of these premises, recall the memory of James 
Hey, the eccentric Englishman, who came to this place forty years ago and 
improved the farm that is now the delightful home of IMr. Kilgour. On 
reacliing the gate, one looks up in the direction of the building through a 
vista of cedars planted by this singular bachelor on either side of a graveled 
drive. The sides are thickly studded with these living columns, whose aged 
branches noAv arch the roadway and twine themselves about each other, 
forming a perpetual shield from both sunshine and storm. In front of the 
dwelling, which is several hundred yards from the road, are pines, planted 
by the same hand, some of them two ;ui<l a half feet in diameter and sixtv 
feet in hight. The old dwelling has been so changed by Mr. Kilgour that 
its former self is scarcely discernible. A Mansard roof has been added ; 
verandas, like those of the south, sweep around three sides of the buildinir : 
while other improvements have so transformed the hean ideal of the 
Englishman's home that now he would scarcely recognize it, could he revisit 
the scene of his former labors. 

A little farther on, on the opposite side of the road, is the new cottaizc 
erected by F. P. Anderson, and recently sold to N. C. McLean, who 
will soon remove to it. This is a beautiful, cozy home, complete in all its 
appointments. The grounds emln-ace about fourteen acres, and are \ov\ 
desirable. 

On the (4randin road is the home of ^Mrs. riiilii) (irandin. This i-^ 
an attractive dwelling, erected in 1860, upon a lot of five acres. Back of 
this are the premises of William AVood, purchased of \\'i]liam 8. Grandin. 
in 180H. They consist of about sixteen acres of land, bounded by both ilic 
Orandin and Torrence roads, and an excellent dwelling, which occupies a 
tine position, from which gliinj)ses of the river are obtained. 



70 3iJ.hzo7-^7os of Cz-rioiizizcLti. 



West of Mr. Wood's property, fronting on Torrence road, Hon. Wm. S. 
Groesbeck has recently purchased twenty-five acres of woodland, which is 
covered with a vigorous growth of the hardy timber of this latitude. On 
this, facing the Ohio river, he proposes to erect an elegant residence of blue 
limestone. The plans have been completed by the architect, J. W. 
McLaughlin, and ground has been broken for the foundations. 

Nearly opposite Mrs. Grandin's is the residence of William Aubery, with 
about five acres of land. The old dwelling has been remodeled and 
improved. The projDerty was purchased about eleven years ago for $3,000, 
but has increased largely in value. 

Near this, William McRoberts has ten acres of land, and a house that 
has been erected about fifteen years. This property was sold twelve years 
ago for $10,000, and was purchased eight years afterward, by Mr. McRob- 
erts, for $30,000. 

Adjoining this is the John Myers tract of fifty-five acres, which was pur- 
chased by W. W. Scarborough in 1867. This is a fine body of land, and, 
when it comes into market, will furnish beautiful locations for those seeking 
homes in that locality. 

A short distance east is the farm of Joseph Longworth. There being no 
stock at large in the highways, no fences appear on the road along a portion 
of these premises, and the green sward comes down to the very roadside. 
The residence, which occupies a commanding position, is approached by cir- 
cuitous drives. The shrubbery is grouped in a manner to produce the best 
effect, and charming objects are on every side. Mr. Longworth has recently 
added to his dwelling a fine-art gallery, which contains a collection of pic- 
tures that, for artistic worth, have few equals in the whole country. 

On an eligible knoll, east of his own residence, Mr. Longworth has 
recently erected for his daughter, Mrs. George Ward Nichols, a residence 
that will bear favorable comparison with any in the suburbs. It is a two- 
story edifice, constructed of blue limestone, with freestone trimmings. It 
is amply supplied with tasteful verandas, and has bay Avindows looking in 
several directions upon the splendid scenery of that locality. The inside is 



East W^Gulixubt Hills. 71 



to be elaborately finished ^vith hard woods, aud, when completed, the 
improvement will be the most attractive in East Walnut Hills. 

East of Mr. Longworth's is the tasteful residence of E. P. Crunch, 
erected about two years ago. The edifice is a two-story frame, sun-ounded 
h\ attractive grounds, and enjoying a fine up-river view. 

Next is the very comfortable home of A. A. Bennett, a brick dwelling of 
two stories, surrounded by verandas. The lot embraces seven acres, Avliich 
are finely embellished with shrubbery and flowers, and well supplied with 
shade trees. 

On the same side of the road, but farther to the east, is the residence of 
John S. Taylor. The lands of Mr. Taylor, fourteen acres in extent, are 
singularly attractive. They command a superb view of the river and the 
surrounding country. HiUs, dales, and stream combine to form one t)f the 
most lovely and charming landscape \aews on the Ohio river. The lowei- 
parts of Cincinnati, the suspension bridge, the cities of Kentucky, and the 
charming highlands on the south side of the Ohio, are in full view, both 
summer and winter. In some aspects, the scenery is equal to any presented 
upon the Hudson or the Rliine. 

A short drive brings the visitor to the end of the Grandin road. Here 
is the residence of the Hon. P. W. Strader, which occupies a position that 
has few equals upon the Ohio. Mr. Strader has both an up and do^^•n-river 
view. To one looking eastwardly, the beautiful river is revealed a long- 
distance, the village of Columbia is at his feet, and the whole prospect is 
one of rare beauty. 

Nearly opposite Mr. Taylor, John Cinnamon has purchased an eligible 
lot and made some preparations for the erection of a tasteful dwelling. 
The foundations are already prepared, and considerable work has been done 
toward the improvement and embellishment of the grounds. 

Adjoining this, on the same side of the road, is the two-story frame resi- 
dence of J. AV. Sibley. The structure is new, and has an appearance as 
inviting as any in the village. It is tasteful without being expensive, and 



-72 BiohiMThs of UinGzizTzciti' . 



conveys to the mind an idea of the absolute conifoi't of home which the 
palace may neither present nor enjoy. 

Immediately west of Mr. Sibley's is the beautiful liome of Matthias 
Harth, Avho has about four acres of land, and a brick dwelling inclining to 
the Swiss in its architecture. This is surrounded by a profusion of shrub- 
bery and evergreens. From ]Mr. Harth's residence a splendid up-river view 
is obtained. 

The place of Robert Burnet is on the south of the Grandin road, west of 
Mr. Hartli's. INIr. Burnet has ample lands, upon which the residence was 
erected five years ago, by Capt. W. P. Anderson, who has resided there 
until quite recently. Like his neighbors, he enjoys a splendid prospect. 
His location, however, somewhat difi'ers from others, affording, principally, 
an up-river view, embracing the Ohio, the villages of Columbia and Califor- 
nia, the mouth of the Little Miami, and Mt. Tusculum, besides a large sweep 
of rolling lands. His yard is adorned with flowers, and the gardens su^jplied 
with the rarest varieties of the strawberry and other fi-uits. In order to 
show the increase in the value of lands in this vicinity, it may he remarked 
here that, adjoining this property, four and a half acres were sold, two 
and a half years ago, for ^5,000. The same tract again changed hands 
within nine months for S7,500, and in 1868 the last purchaser refused 
$11,000. 

The residence of George jM. Hord is one which will engage the attention 
of every visitor. No expense has been spared in its erection. The build- 
ing is stately, commodious, and tasteful ; the immediate surroundings beiu- 
tiful. Mr. Hord enjoys, in common with many of his neighbors, the sur- 
vey of landscapes which are unsurpassed in beauty. 

L. B. Harrison owns sixty-three acres to the left of the Grandin road, 
for which was paid, about nine years ago, S500 per acre. His residence, 
erected in 1863, is an imposing structure, built of undressed blue limestone, 
and finished inside with white walnut. The building is stately, roomy, and 
convenient, and its position has no superior upon the Ohio. With grand 
old forest trees studding the yard, and an unlimited prospect up and down 



East M/^cbln-uut Hills. 73 



the river, one can scarcely conceive how the location could br' iiiadt^ more 
attractive. Mr. Harrison's premises were, until recently, divided between 
Cincinnati and East AValnut Hills, the corporation line having passed 
through his house. 

William Hooper has recently purchased of R. R. .Springer a tract of 
fifty acres, upon which stands the former residence of the late Philip 
Grandm. The house is brick, with porch and colonnade covering the 
entire front. The landscape, like that from Mr. Hooper's sj)lendid resi- 
dence in Woodburn, and Mr. Harrison's residence in East Walnut Hills, is 
superb, taking in, as it does, full views of the suspension bridge, besides the 
lower part of Cincinnati and portions of Covington and Newport. This 
place is within the corporate hmits of Cincinnati, but is adjacent to East 
Walnut Hills, and properly belongs to that locality. 

There are many pleasant homes still farther on in the direction of Mad- 
isonville. Two miles from the latter place, where the Marietta and Cincin- 
nati Railroad crosses the turnpike, is the beautiful little suburb of Oakley, 
which, extending this way, will have to advance luit a short distance to 
meet East Walnut Hills. Indeed, tlie time is not remote when the road 
from Cincinnati to ^ladisonville will lie a continuous village. 

In all directions the land lies beautifully, and the fine situations are by no 
means exhausted, for the whole country is rich in admirable building sites. 
These will be taken, one by one, until the entire valley through \vhicli the 
Marietta road runs, with the adjacent highlands, shall become a suburb of 
Cincinnati. This wQl be hastened by the building of street railways, and 
the more frequent running of railroad trains for the accommodation of local 
travel. 

The approaches to this locality are the same as those of Woodburn, the 
main route being by the Lebanon, Montgomery, and Madisonville roads. 
The Torrence road, which runs from Front street, in Fulton (the Seven- 
teenth Ward), through an opening in the hills, to the intersection of the 
Madisonville and Grandin roads, at Mr. Goodman's, has been macadam- 
ized, and brings East Walnut Hills into immediate connection with the 




74 SlLhlMl^hs of C^l-ZGIlllXCLti'. 



street railway in the Seventeenth Ward, which, by the road, is about a half 
mile distant. 

Moreover, this suburb is soon to have the benefits of one of the great 
improvements of the city and county, Columbia avenue, which is to run 
from the intersection of Water and Tliird streets, along the slope of the 
hill as it falls to the river, until reaching Columbia. This avenue will be 
one hundred feet wide, well macadamized, and will become, as soon as 
finished, a very popular road, for it will be entirely removed from the rail- 
roads, and will look down upon the river along its entire length. A 2^art 
of tliis projected improvement has been already begun, and will doubtless 
be pushed to early completion. 

The public facilities for reaching the city are the same as those of Wood- 
burn. Omnibuses run every twenty minutes during the day from the Lin- 
wood road, which is fully four and a half miles from the court-house. The 
drives through the village are excellent; the Madison ville, CTrandin, and 
Linwood roads are all of them sohd and smooth, and the Torrence road will 
very soon become so. 

East AValnut Hills has no civil authorities other than those of the town- 
ship. The improvement of the avenues and construction of pavements 
must, for a time, depend on individual enterprise. But these drawbacks 
can last only for a limited period, inasmuch as the increase of population 
and the approach of Cincinnati will render it desirable, if not necessary, for 
the village to follow^ the example of Woodburn, and either become a part 
of the latter village or seek a separate incorporation. 

At present East 'Walnut Hills can scarcely be called a village; it is 
rather a thicldy-settled rural district, remarkable for the beauty of its lands, 
and rich in attractive building sites. There has been a steady increase 
in the value of lands in this locality, while t-he demand has quite kept pace 
with tlie augmentation of price. 

The locality in general is a desirable one. The lands are sufficiently 
undulating to furnish almost an unlimited number of building sites, 
and there are no unpleasant views. In any direction, from these eleva- 



Ecbst 'W)CLlTiubt Hills. 75 



tions, beautiful landscapes greet the eye and cheer the heart. It is the 
country, Avith all its verdure, and freshness, and loveliness, free from 
every thing that reminds one of the discomforts of a hot, dusty city, 
and filled \d\h objects calculated to purify the heart, and help it to com- 
mune with Him who "in wisdom has made them aU." 



•QL'^jMp^^L'i; 



-EW travelers who have jiassed over the Cincinnati, Hamilton 
and Dayton Railroad have failed to observe and admire the beauti- 
ful suburban village, the name of which appears at the head of this 

^t) chapter. 

Located upon grounds that gently rise westwardly from the railroad, 
with its tasteful homes half hidden by beautiful shrubbery, and an air of 
comfort and repose that, like a good spirit, seems always present, it has 
been an object of interest almost as long as trains have carried weary trav- 
elers over the road. 

In 1851, several gentlemen of Cincinnati, appreciating the desirableness 
of l)uilding themselves country homes that should be easy of access, and, at 
tlie same time, sufficiently removed from the city to be safe fi-om the 
encroachments of manufactures and commerce, determined upon founding 
a suburban ^dllage somewhere between Hamilton and this city, on the rail- 
road then in process of construction, They inspected the entire route from 
Hamilton down, and finally determined upon the present location. 

The following gentlemen Avere interested in the movement, and became, 
under the name of the "Glendale Association," the proprietors of the new 
village : 

Messrs. George Carlisle, S. S. L'Hommedieu, Abram M. Taylor, Fenton 
Lawson, Anthony Harkness, Clement Dietrich, Andrew Gross, Benjamin 



G-leizdale. 77 



Sterrett, Samuel Fosdick, Henry Clurk, Robert Crawford, Ezra Elliott, 
Marcus Smith, John Young, Wra. Burnet, C. J. Acton, R. B. Bowler, 
Edmund R. Gleini, John W. Ellis, Lewis Worthington, Joseph W. Tay- 
lor, George. T. Stednian, Wm. B. Moores, Jacob Strader, Eden B. Reeder, 
Walter Gregory, Enoch Mudge, Isaac D. Glenn, George Crawford, Hon. 
John C. Wright. 

Lands were purchased of Edmund R. Glenn, John Riddle, James Wat- 
sou, and others, embracing altogether nearly 600 acres. About 200 acres 
were laid off in lots of from one to twenty acres, under the direction of 
R. C. Phillips, engineer, of this city. These lots were exposed to public 
sale, with the understanding that the amount realized above the original 
cost was to be used in the improvement of the avenues, the construction of 
a lake, parks, etc. The object was to secure such improvement as would 
perpetuate the property in the hands of responsible and desirable persons. 
To promote this end, it was expressly understood between the parties that 
none but good dwellings should be erected. 

Improvements began almost immediately. The association very soon 
erected a hotel, intended as a place of summer resort, which went into 
operation soon after its completion. This project, however, did not meet 
the expectation of those interested, and it was soon sold to the Junction 
RaUroad Company. Thence it passed into the possession of the Rev. John 
Covert, wlio converted it into tlie Glendale Female College, now well 
known as one of our best female educational institutions. 

Among those who first erected residences and removed to the village were 
Messrs. Sterrett, Clark, Lawson, Glenn, Fosdick, and the Crawfords. Fol- 
lowing these were Messrs. Elliott, Harkness, and others. 



DESCRIPTION, 

Glendale should rather be considered as a whole than in detail. There 
are no jxdatial mansions, no extensive lawns, no long, sweeping graveled 
drives, such as the visitor sees in some other suburbs. It is rather a collec- 



78 S-bbh-bbThs of O^nGZTiTzcbti. 

tion of beautiful homes, with ample grounds and profase shrubbery, 
approached by circuitous avenues, and distinguished for the air of comfort 
and retirement that everywhere prevails. You can scarcely say there is 
one place notable above another, and yet there is a rare combination of 
pleasant features that holds out strong inducements to those who desire to 
get entirely away from the busy whirl of the city and enjoy complete 
repose. There are no towering hills nor immense stretches of valley; but 
quiet landscapes say to fatigued limbs and wearied minds, "Here is rest." 



AVENUES. 

Glendale is laid out irregularly. Whichever way the stranger takes, he 
is constantly impressed with the thought that he has made a mistake, and 
whatever point he attains is certain to be some one imlooked for. This is 
the more embarrassing to the visitor, who asks in vain for the names of the 
avenues that appear neither upon guide-boards, as at Avondale, nor in the 
minds of the inhabitants, who feel no necessity of troubling themselves con- 
cerning the mazes of thoroug-hfares with which time has made them thor- 
oughly familiar. A better acquaintance, however, removes the annoyance, 
and a score of visits demonstrates quite clearly how study unravels the most 
intricate ways. 

The avenues are generally sixty feet wide, though Sharon avenue, that 
runs from east to west through the village, is eighty feet in width. Nearly 
all are well gi-aveled ; the larger number have sidewalks, and not a few have 
trees that furnish ample shade. 



PARKS, 

Glendale, too, has three handsome little parks. That is, handsome 
naturally; for, save the fences that surround them, they are in their 
primeval condition. The grand old forest trees spread their broad branches 
over the luxuriant sward, and a half-beaten path marks the route by which 



G-lenoLcble. 79 

pedestrians find the nearest way home, or moonlight wanderers saunter forth 
to enjoy the repose and poetry of the night. Glendale, however, needs no 
park. Forest trees shade the village; shrubbery is even too abundant; 
flowers every where regale the sense, and avenues meander through the quiet 
grounds. It is, indeed, a park itself, needing few additional attractions. 



PUBLIC SCHOOLS. 

There is, perhaps, no more encouraging feature connected with the 
growth of the various suburbs than the attention our suburban citizens pay 
to the establishment and fostering of public schools. Glendale is no excep- 
tion in this respect. It has a commodious one-story brick school build- 
ing, with four separate apartments. There are in attendance about 120 
scholars, divided into high, intermediate, and primary dei^artments. The 
school is under the successful superintendence of jNIr. Florien Giaugue. 

The coiu'se of study is arranged with a vie^v of preparing boys for the 
Freshman class in college, and the scholars are generally of a good character 
and regular in attendance. 



GLENDALE FEMALE COLLEGE. 

This institution is one of the chief features of the village. Though 
intended originally for a hotel, it Avas very early diverted to school purposes, 
and ever since has occuj)ied a prominent position among the female educa- 
tional institutions of the country. It was founded in 1854 by the Rev. 
John Covert. In the spring of 1856 it passed into the hands of the Rev. 
Joseph G. Monfort, D.D., the Rev. Ludlow D. Potter, and the Rev. 
Samuel S. Potter. The last named continued in the institution until 1860, 
and Dr. ]\Ionfort as late as 1865, since which time the institution has been 
under the able and successful manascement of the Rev. Ludlow U. Potter, 



80 SiMh'hii'^'hs of CinGzni7.cLti, 

and has graduated classes tliat have gone into all parts of the country to 
reflect credit upon the institution, and impart the blessings which educated 
minds and cultivated hearts are sure to confer. 

In the year 1856 the chapel was destroyed by fire, but it Avas rebuilt in 
the following autumn. In 1859 additions were made to the building on the 
noi'th, and the part, originally two, was increased to three stories. 

The main building, with the exception of the extension ' on the north, 
which contains the dining room and nine music rooms, is one hundred and 
seventeen feet in length by forty-two feet in >vidth. The extension added 
to the former makes a total length of one hundred and seventy-seven 
feet. The edifice is built of brick, on a splendid elevation, with the main 
approach from Sharon avenue, upon which it is situated. A capacious 
veranda on the east looks out upon the ample grounds that surroimd the 
building, the lower parts of the village, the railroad, and the remote farms 
that gently swell into hills in the distant east. On the north-east is the 
chapel, a two-story brick edifice, sixty-eight by forty-five feet, containing a 
study room in the second story that occupies the full size of the building, and 
six recitation rooms on the first floor. The main building will comfortably 
accommodate seventy-five boarding pupils. But this by no means comprises 
the whole school. About fifty scholars are in regular daily attendance, who 
reside in Glendale and Spring-dale, which is adjacent, and in Locldand, Car- 
thage, and other towns accessible by rail. 

The course of study is unusually thorough and complete, and is alike 
creditable to Mr. Potter, who has elevated the standard of female educa- 
tion, and to the patrons of the school, who have been able to appreciate the 
labors and judgment of this sterling and popular educator. Music has been 
made, for many years, a matter of special attention. An institution 
in the midst of a quiet suburb, surrounded by the homes of the 
refined and educated, and removed from the circumstances that frequently 
embarrass the best-regulated institutions, Avith a thorough and proper course 
of study, and competent instructors, could not well enjoy a less success than 
has for several years distinguished this school. 



G-lenddle. 81 



The St. Gabriel's (Catholic) School is in connection with the Catliolic 
Church. The rooms, five in number, to the rear of the church, are devoted 
to the school, which numbers over two hundred scholars. The four teachers 
are Sisters of Charity. The school is free, and the citizens of Glendale, 
outside the Catholic Church, hold the institution in such estimation that 
they contributed thirteen hundred dollars to the erection of the valuable 
additions made two years ago. 

CHURCHES. 

The Fu'st Presbyterian Church was organized, as an Old School Presby- 
terian body, November 29, 1855, and is the oldest church organization in 
Glendale. Its first regular pastor was the Kev. H. A. Tracy. The church 
Is now in charge of the Rev. Wm. H. Babbitt. Ruling Elders — Jacob J. 
Packer, Hon. Stanley Matthews, Samuel J. Thompson, Esq., and R. K. 
Browai. The present membership numbers over one hundred. The Sab- 
bath-school, in charge of Samuel J. Thomjison, Esq., has an average attend- 
ance of one hundred scholars and fifteen teachers, and meets at half-past 
nine o'clock in the morning. 

The present brick edifice, erected ten years ago, is a unique structure, 
approaching the Swiss in the style of its architecture. It is a quaint build- 
ing, and well calculated to attract the attention of travelers upon the rail- 
road near which it is situated. What the exterior lacks in beauty, the inte- 
rior possesses in neatness and comfort. The room is open to the rafters. 
The desk is of white walnut, the floors are carpeted, the pew^s are fin- 
ished in oak and well upholstered, and the windows constructed of stained 
glass. 

CHRIST CHURCH. 

Chi-ist (Episcopal) Church was organized August 6, 1865, by the Rev. 
J. B. Pratt, and John D. Jones, Sr. , and N. C. McLean, wardens ; and 
Samuel Fosdick, R. M, Shoemaker, R. B. Moore, George W. Jones, Henry 



82 SzihiLThs of CiixGinncLti. 

Holroyd, and John Titus, vestrymen. Services were held in private houses 
and school-houses until about three years ago, when a small chapel was 
erected on Sharon avenue. The present rector is the Rev. C. H. Young. 
The congregation has completed a new edifice on the summit of the hill, 
south of Sharon avenue, at a cost of twenty thousand dollars. The building 
is Gothic ; a simple nave church, with two transepts, eleven by thirteen feet 
in the clear — one of the latter intended for the organ and the other 
the vestry. The material is blue limestone, rock-faced, uncoursed, with 
freestone dressings to windows, buttresses, and gables. The audience 
room is thirty by sixty feet, with ceihng of arched and molded timber ribs, 
springing from buttresses that rise between the windows. The chancel is 
octagonal, and separated from the main building by an ornamented arch. 
The side windows are mullion, and of stained glass, while a triple \nndow 
adorns the front. The building is covered with slate. The spire is ninety 
feet in liight, fifty feet of which are constructed of stone, and the remainder of 
timber, with a slate covering. The main entrance to the building is through 
the base of the tower, while the vestry is reached through a side opening. 
This handsome church edifice will accommodate about two hundred and 
fifty persons, and was occupied by the congregation the first time Sab- 
bath, May 30, 1869. When finished inside, as it will be, to correspond 
with the elegance of its exterior, it will be one of the most attractive of our 
suburban churches. The architects are Anderson & Hannaford, of this 
city. 

CHURCH OF THE NEW JERUSALEM. 

The Church of the New Jerusalem (Swedenborgian) is unique, and, 
withal, one of the neatest, most cozy places of worship that can be found in 
our suburbs. Not that a large outlay has been made upon it, for it is a 
frame structure and comparatively plain, but that it seems to have been con- 
structed with a view to elegant simplicity. It occupies a site in the shade 
of a beautifid forest on Congress avenue, where the grand old trees stand 
like solemn sentinels to guard it from harm. 



G-lendcble. 83 



The church was erected m 1860, is cruciform in shape, oue transept 
being used for vestry and the other for vestibule. The main room is fifty 
by twenty-five feet, with high ceilings, jilain stuccoed wall, and white j)ine 
finishing. The chancel is finished in oak. The communion table is pine, 
and bears a beautiful device of wheat and the vine, and the monogram 
I. H. S. (Jesus, Hominum Salvator). The reading lecturn, pulpit, and 
liturgy desk are all of oak, and carved in eminently good taste. On one 
side of the first -named is the monogram Iota Chi, the Greek initials of Jesus 
Christ, and on the other the Greek letters Alpha and Omega. In the east 
side of the room is a splendid colored dual window, bearing similar mono- 
grams to those found upon the lecturn. The room is carpeted, aud pro- 
vided with chairs. The whole appearance is that of the comfort and quiet 
of home ; indeed, it is a spiritual home. 

The Sabbath-school, which meets at four o'clock in the afternoon, num- 
bers aliout forty scholars, under the superintendence of the j)astor, the Eev. 
Frank Sewell. 

In the same grove, soutli of the church, the congregation has a two-story 
brick parsonage, erected about eight years ago. 

ST. Gabriel's church. 
The St. Gabriel Catholic Church was organized in 1859. In the same 
year the main part of the present brick structure was erected, to which 
additions, from time to time, have been made. The present edifice will 
comfortably seat two hundred and fifty persons. The auditorium is fifty by 
thirty feet ; sanctuary, sixteen by sixteen feet ; and the vestry, fourteen by 
twelve feet. They have a lot of five acres, situated at the corner of Sharon 
and Church avenues. Pastor, the Rev. Wm. M. Carey. 

RESIDENCES. 

Judge Stanley Matthews was among the earliest to discover the desirable- 
ness of Glendale as a place of residence. He removed to this place in 



84 BiohziTh s of Oz'n.Ginncbti. 

1854, and has resided here uninterruptedly since that time. He has between 
five and six acres of land that slope gently to the east. He has a fine 
lawn, a few forest trees, a graveled drive, and a splendid eastern outlook. 
His residence is a spacious two-story brick, with six gables, and verandas on 
the east and in the recess on the north. His dwelling fronts on Fountain 
avenue, though the grounds extend quite through to both Magnolia and 
Woodbine avenues. The Judge, too, has a library of great value. In addi- 
tion to a large number of books on the law, he has one of the finest collec- 
tions of theological, classical, and miscellaneous works that can be found 
in our suburbs. 

Immediately adjoining Judge Matthews, on the south, is the snug home 
of N. Goldsmith, on the corner of East Fountain and Magnolia avenues. 
Mr. Goldsmith has two and one-half acres of land, that slope to the south- 
east, and, inasmuch as he has a beautiful open lawn in that direction, enjoys 
a landscape of unusual beauty. He has a roomy, story-and-a-half frame 
cottage, that combines, with his grounds, to make a most comfortable and 
attractive home. 

On the same square of Judge Matthews' are the premises of R. M. Shoe- 
maker, about four acres in extent. He has a brick residence of two stories, 
with a French roof. An airy iron veranda embraces the front, and an 
ornamental portico fiaces the east. Mr. Shoemaker, with his large grounds, 
beautiful surroundings, and tastefid house, has one of the attractive places 
of this suburb. He removed to Glendale and to this spot in 1855, and is, 
consequently, among the pioneers of that beautiful locahty. 

Opposite the place of Mr. Shoemaker is John R. Wright's, on the north- 
east corner of Laurel and Fountain avenues. Mr. Wright has a two-story 
brick edifice, erected by Mr. Gross. A bi'oad veranda on the south looks 
out upon beautiful grounds, fiUed with young forest and shade trees, shrub- 
bery, and flowers. 

On the north side of Fountain avenue, opposite the premises of Judge 
Matthews, is the comfortable place of John L. Miner, Esq., embraced by 
both Fountain and Myrtle avenues. Mr. Miner has not the state of some 



G-lendcble. 85 



of his suburban neighbors, but he has a cheerful home, with ample grounds 
and pletu«ant surroundings. 

Just beyond Mr. Miner's, but near the summit of the elevation upon 
which the village is located, is the residence of Benjamin Sterrett, on the 
corner of Magnolia and Fountain avenues. jNIr. Sterrett was one of the 
originiJ movers in the location of this subiu'b, and has the third house 
erected in the village. He built his present dwelling in 1852 and '53, and 
has since continued to reside there. He has a two-story brick residence, 
with a Mansard roof, and a broad veranda on the south. The location is a 
very desirable one. His ample grounds are adorned with shrubbery and 
flowers, and command a good view of the surrounding country. 

Still proceeding to the westward, but all the time creeping to the left, we 
reacli, on the corner of Forest avenue, that intersects Fountain avenue from 
the north, still another avenue, tliat proceeds from Fountain, and bears 
almost directly to the west. This is called Wood avenue. On the corner 
of the latter and Forest avenue is the residence of Charles C. Kohl, a taste- 
ful two-story frame, \vith a French roof. In front is a veranda, and on the 
east a bay window. His commodious and tasteful dwelling comljines with 
well-kept walls;s and abundant shrubbery to make his property very 
desirable. 

On the south side of Wood, corner of Fountain avenue, is the residence 
of Ivobert Clarke, one of the most tasteful and attractive in Glendale. 
This is a fine two-story brick residence, wdth Mansard roof, once the dwell- 
ing of Ezra Elliott, but since remodeled, and so changed as to quite conceal 
the original design. The building faces the east, and is approached by a 
graveled drive. From the veranda the land descends gracefully to the east, 
and over handsomely-kept shrubbery the visitor looks out upon a prospect 
of great beauty. For miles to the east the valley sweeps away with its cai'- 
pet of vernal hues, and the very landscape holds a serenity that comes, after 
the labors of the day, with sweet relief to tired minds and limbs. The 
most attractive featui'c of jNIr. Clarke's premises is his library, upon which 
he has bestowed much attention and expense. It is a roomy apartment — 



86 Szih-LLThs of CinGzizizcvti. 

quite too small, however, for the demands of his ample stock of books, etc. 
The room is wainscoted in black walnut and oak, and ceiled with the same 
material. It is a rich apartment in appearance, Avith shelves crowded mth 
standard works of history and literature, and embelhshed with many rare 
and valuable volumes of hterature and art, which industry and money have 
secured in this country aud in Europe. 

Moving westwardly up Wood avenue, on the north-east corner of that 
street and Congress avenue, we reach the residence of John D. Jones. 
The substantial brick dwelling, with its front tower, through which it is 
approached, is almost hidden by the splendid evergreens that thickly stud 
the yard and rear their dark forms in rich luxuriance overhead. 

On the same square with Mr. Jones' and Mr. Kohl's, if an irregular tract 
can be called a square, is the residence of Charles Davis. Mr. Davis is on 
the south-west corner of Forest and Erie avenues, and has grounds of six 
acres, handsomely kept. Since the present owner came here, seven years 
ago, the house and premises have been greatly improved. Mr. Davis has a 
grapery filled with the rarest varieties of foreign grapes — Golden, Black, 
and Champion Hamburg, White Muscat, Muscadine, etc. In addition to 
this, he has erected an orcliid house, which is filled with delicate and rare 
fruits that can only, in this climate, be produced under glass. The sur- 
roundings are in every way inviting, and, under the dihgent hand of its 
present owner, will soon become one of the most attractive places of our 
suburbs. 

Among the amplest grounds and most substantial structures are those of 
Thomas Johnston, bounded by Congress, Erie, and Sharon avenues. Mr. 
Johnston has a large two-story brick residence, with verandas on three 
sides, upon which vines have been carefully trained. His broad grounds, 
about six and three-quarters acres, are supplied mth fruit trees, shiaibbeiy, 
and flowers, and intersected by a smooth graveled drive. His premises are 
inclosed by a thrifty hedge, and skirted by rows of handsome young 
maples. 

On the south-east corner of Sharon and Forest avenues is the neat and 



G-lerzdcble. 87 

comfortable cottage of S. S. Carpenter, surrounded ^vith shrubbery, and 
occupying one of the most eligible locations in the village. 

Opposite, on Sharon avenue, is the residence of Judge J. Cilley, who 
came to Glendale in 1855, and is now reckoned among the " oldest inhab- 
itants." His pleasant home is among the earliest erected in that village, 
and is a landmark which is famiUar to every school-girl whose good fortune 
has brought her to the Glendale Female College. 

Immediately adjoining the Judge's, and next to the college, is the resi- 
dence of Samuel Fosdick, fanaihar to every one acquainted with Glendale, 
because it is among the earliest erected, and has long been the home of one 
of its most influential and respected citizens. The edifice is a large two- 
story brick, with a portico facing the avenue. Immediately adjoining the 
college are the spacious grounds that surround the dwelling, upon wliich an 
army of young school-girls have watched, day by day, the shrubbery and 
groAnng plants, and been reminded, not unfrequently sadly, of their ow^n 
distant, happy homes, concerning which the true heart is ever so sensitive. 

On the south side of Sharon avenue, opposite the college, is the home of 
Dr. A. Shepherd. This house, in connection with Glendale, is historic, 
inasmuch as it was originally the property of Mr. Glenn, from whom this 
delightful suburb has taken its name. The surroundings are pleasant, and 
the location one of the most favorable and commanding in the village. 

Extending from Laurel to Forest avenue, and immediately south of Dr. 
Shepherd's, is the residence of Mrs. Anthony Harkness, a two-story frame, 
with double porches, the freshness of which time has removed without 
destroying its home appearance. The grounds, which gradually ascend to 
the dwelling, are covered with a profusion of shrubbery and flowers. 

Now, if the reader will proceed along Sharon and Forest avenues, he 
will be shown the new residence of Wm. Wilson McGrew, one of the most 
beautiful in the village. It is a handsomely -finished two-story frame, with 
a Swiss roof, and a fine, airy veranda, fronting Forest avenue. The land 
fidls rapidly to the east, revealing a landscape not unlike that enjoyed from 
Mr, Clarke's. 



Suhuyj^hs of CiriG'inii.cbti . 



On Sharon avenue, extending quite from Laurel to Willow avenue, but 
fronting on Laurel, is the residence of Capt. T. J. Haldeman, one of the 
best in Glendale. This house was originally erected by Wm. B. Moores, 
but has been greatly improved by the Captain since he came here in 1867. 
The building is a large, two-story, well-finished, brick edifice, with verandas 
embracing both the east and west fronts. The Captain has spacious 
grounds, a fine view, beautiful lawn, and finely-graveled drives. 

Immediately adjoining this; on the south, is the tasteful residence of Wm. 
S. Grandin, a two-story brick, with an observatory, and a veranda on the 
ujjper north front, looking out upon the splendid rural scene to the east. 
Mr. Grandin's grounds are well filled with shrubbery, evergreens, and 
shade trees, and are immediately in connection with Captain Haldeman's 
premises. Both grounds are intersected by the same drives, and are used 
in connuon. 

On Sharon avenue, immediately oj)posite Captain Haldeman's, is the res- 
idence of Daniel DeCamp, a handsome, two-story brick edifice, with a 
veranda on the lower south front, and a bay window on the south. The 
grounds are well set in evergreens, and slope handsomely to the avenue. 
The whole premises are attractive, and are among the best of Glen- 
dale. 

The venerable Robert Crawford has a place of about four acres on the 
north side of Sharon avenue. He has a two-story edifice, near Willow ave- 
nue, surrounded by thick shrubbery, with shade and fruit trees, and flowers 
in abundance. Mr. Crawford was one of the earliest citizens of Cincinnati 
to take up his residence in Glendale, and is, we believe, the oldest merchant 
now living that was in Cincinnati when he came to this city in 1814. He 
has a pleasant home iii which to spend the evening of life, and has no 
inclination to exchange it for the smoke and dust that enveloped him during 
a good part of his business career. 

East of Mr. Crawford's, on the ojiposite side of Willow avenue, is the 
residence of Charles E. Spinning, a two-story edifice, erected eight years 
ago. Mr. Sjjinning has a tasteful dwelling, with veranda on the lower 



G-lendcble. 89 



front, and has siuTOunding.s that will compare favorably with any in Glen- 
dale. 

Immediately adjoining Mr. Spinning's, on the cast, is the neat cottage of 
Arthur Ross, recently that of Wm. F. Colburn, a cozy, inviting home. 

On the same avenue, corner of Greenville, John Walsli, during the year 
1868, erected a two-story building, with INIansard roof, adapted to business 
purposes. 

F. M. Douglass, on the corner of Sharon and Willow avenues, has a two- 
story brick residence, well supplied with verandas, bay windows, etc., and 
surrounded by about two acres, well set in shrubbery and kept in good 
order. 

On the same square is the former residence of R. Bartlett, recently sold 
to R. W. Keys, a two-story brick edifice, with plenty of shrubbery, fruit 
trees, and ample approaches. 

Leaving this part of Glendale, and gomg from the extreme north-eastern 
to the south-western limits of the village, we reach, on the corner of Foun- 
tain avenue and the Cincinnati turnpike, the residence of John H. Porter, 
one of the most beautiful in its surroundings in Glendale. The building 
is a two-story frame cottage, with verandas on the south and east. The 
lawn is the best m the village. He has a fine conservatory, handsomely- 
grouped evergreens, thrifty young shade trees, and floAvers in abundance. 
In tlie south a splendid prospect is unfolded of level fields, gentle undula- 
tions, and distant hills. 

North of Mr. Porter's and immediately adjoining the parsonage of the 
Church of the New Jerusalem, is the residence of Alfred Allen, a neat 
story-and-a-half cottage, surrounded by shrubbery and shade trees. 

Embraced by Congress and Fountain avenues and the Cincinnati turn- 
pike, are the premises of Samuel B. Allen. His residence is Elizabethan 
in style, and constructed of blue limestone, with trimmings of freestone. 
It was erected about nine years ago, and is one of the most substantial, 
spacious, and stylish among the surburban residences of Cincinnati, 'ilie 
interior is approached through a ma«sive stone porch. On the cast is a 
7 



90 SzbhiL'rhs of CiTzczizTzati. 

broad, airy veranda, looking in the distance upon a fine agricultural scene. 
Good graded walks intersect the grounds, and a smooth green lawn surrounds 
the buildings. The location is one of the most beautiful in this part of 
Glendale. 

East of the f)remises of Mr. Allen is the residence of Mrs. Dr. Samuel 
Robbins, a two-story frame cottage, pleasantly located on Oak avenue, the 
southern boundary of the village. 

Immediately adjoining this, on the east, is the residence of Samuel J. 
Thompson, a two-story brick building, erected two years ago. He has an 
east front, with a wide, airy veranda, from which he enjoys an extensive 
view of South Glendale and the adjoining country. Mr. Thompson has 
good carriage drives, and the absence of a profusion of shrubbery is in 
pleasant contrast with the prevailing idea of Glendale in this regard. 

Immediately adjoining Mr. Thoni^Json's, on the north, is the property he 
vacated to occupy his new premises. Passing this, we reach the home of 
Mrs. Mary Kinmont, on Fountain avenue, a two-story brick, with verandas 
on both east and south. Mrs. Kinmont has a beautiful location. The ele- 
vated position affords a fine view of the farm scene to the south and the 
gradually-rising lands to the east, with the village of Sharon in the dis- 
tance. 

Adjoining Mrs. Kinmont's, on the north, is the residence of James C. 
Richardson, facing Ivy avenue instead of Fountain. This is one of the 
earliest cottages erected in Glendale. The location is not inferior to that of 
Mrs. Kinmont. It is elevated, commanding, and beautiful. The green 
lawn slopes gracefully to the east, and the cottage looks out through a pro- 
fusion of shrubbery and flowers upon the quiet landscape beyond. 

Returning to Fountain avenue, passing on our way the graceful little park 
from which six distinct avenues begin their serpentine career, we find oiu'- 
selves again in the vicinity of the premises of Robert Clarke. Adjoining his 
on the south is the home of Henry Clark, one of the oldest residents, and, 
we believe, the gentleman who made the first selection of lots in Glendale. 
He has a story-and-a-half brick dwelling, with a porch embracing the entire 



G-lendcble. 91 

front of the building. The grounds are filled with shrul)l)ery, imd the locu- 
tion, in elevation, is only equaled by that of his neighbor, JNIr. Roberts. 

Then, on the south, comes the house of Britton Iloberts, who has lived 
in his present place fifteen years. He has a two-story brick dwelling, with 
verandas and pleasant outlooks. Surrounding the buildings is a profusion 
of shrubbery that half hides the natural beauty of the location, but still 
reveals a fair view of the surrounding country. ]\Ir. Roberts has, it is 
claimed, the highest ground in the village. 

Immediately in the graceful curve that Fountain avenue makes to reach 
out to Congress, is the residence of ]\Irs. jNIarston Allen, a two-story brick, 
with ample verandas, broad grounds, and plenty of shrubbery. The loca- 
tion of this residence, once the home of one of the best known merchants 
of Cincinnati, is elevated and attractive. 

Adjoining this, with an approach from Congress avenue, is the residence 
of C. H. Allen, a two-story brick edifice, with a colonnade embracing the 
whole front. Mr. Allen's premises are well provided with flowers and ever- 
greens. With the proximity of good neighbors and the little church gem 
of the New Jerusalem, and the open shade trees revealing the pleasant 
landscape to the south, Mr. Allen need seek no more desirable location. 

Leaving this comfortable home, and passing around Congress and Oak 
avenues until reaching Ivy avenue, which finds itself arrested by the latter 
thoroughfare, there is, on the east, the cozy residence of A. C. Tyler, a tasteful 
two-story frame cottage that fronts both the south and east. An oriel win- 
dow looks out to the Avest, and roses half hide the veranda that relieves the 
south front of the pleasant home. 

Immediately north, on the east side of Ivy, is the hospitable home of the 
Hon. Warner ]M. Bateman, a two-story brick edifice, surrounded by ample 
grounds that fall gently to the east. Mr. Bateman's premises extend quite 
through to Woodbine avenue on the east, and are familiar to all who pass 
along the railroad, both because of their inviting appearance and the prom- 
inence given all the buildings that grace the first elevation upon which this 
l)oautiful village is built. 



92 SiLhiMThs of C-L'riGi-nTicbt^ . 

On the north of Mr. Bateraan's fe the new residence of Mrs. Fenton 
Lawson, a two-story brick, with Mansard roof, suppHed with all the con- 
veniences of a modern house. This was erected in 1869 l3y the late Dr. 
Samuel Robbins, a sterling citizen, a valuable member of ])oth church and 
- ociety, who died before the entire completion of the dwelling which he ^vas 
buildmg for his own occupancy. He did much to improve Glendale, hav- 
ing erected some of the finest residences in the place. He worked for 
Glendale; so did he for humanity; for the man who erects homes of con- 
venience and taste in the country, for those who have not the courage to do 
more than seriously consider a removal from a crowded city when every- 
thing is provided, does a Avork of benevolence. 

On the corner of Ivy and Magnoha avenues, on a handsome elevation, is 
the residence of Mr. Gunnison, a new two-story brick edifice, handsomely 
finished both within and without, and commanding a fine view of the valley 
and higher lands in the distance. 

Between the two last buildings is the residence of James Bell, a neat, 
comfortable home, occupying the same elevation which is graced by the res- 
idences that so handsomely flank it. 

The end of the catalogue is now approached ; but the best is sometimes 
saved for the last. We leave the highlands and descend to the railroad, 
wending our way along the extension of INIagnolia avenue. At its intersec- 
tion with Greenville avenue we turn sharj^ly to the north, and, passing a 
cottage or so, reach the splendid new residence of D. jNIcLaren, recently 
erected by Daniel DeCamp, another patron of Glendale, Avho has given it 
>ome of its most beautiful ornaments. The house is a commodious two- 
story brick, with extensive verandas and tasteful architectural adornments. 
The lawn, which gently descends from the dwelling to the avenue, is broad 
and beautiful. Its smooth, velvety surface more resemliles the carefully- 
kept lawns of Clifton than any in Glendale. There is no more inviting, 
more tasteful, residence in this suburb than that which has become the home 
of the well-known superintendent of the road to which Glendale owes its 
location. 



G-lenddle. 93 

Adjoining Mr. McLaren's, on the north, is the home of H. W. Hughes, 
a two-story brick edifice, with observatory and veranda feeing the raih-oad. 
Mr. Hughes has broad, sweeping lands, that extend from Greenville to 
Woodbine avenue. The residence stands in the midst of ample grounds, 
and, with its convenience to church, the schools, and railroad, is one of the 
most pleasant and eligible among the premises of Glendale. Mr. Hughes' 
inviting home is embellished with one of the most valuable private religious 
libraries that can be found in Ohio. 

We now reach the hospitable home of George W. GaUager, a tasteful 
cottage, with it:- verandas and chmbing vines and flowers. Surrounding it 
is a broad yard, well filled with evergreens and shrubbery. An occasional 
fruit tree is a reminder of the providence of the owner; and the clean- 
kept ^valks, and the carefully-prepared boixlers for summer flowers, speak 
better than words can of the diligent hand and the lover of the beautiful. 
Mr. Gallager is not one of the old residents, but he is quite devoted to 
Glendale, the interests of which he guards with jealous care. Compara- 
tively clear of business trammels, he, among the few, finds time to give 
much attention to the promotion of every project that looks to making 
Glendale the home of comfort and the place of the refined. 

Immediately north of INIr. Gallager's are the dwellings of ^Nlrs. William 
Probasco and Harry Larchier, both of them neat two-story frame cottages, 
on Greenville avenue, in full view of the railway, and very convenient to 
the station. 

Next is the spacious residence of R. AV. Keys, fiicing Woodbine avenue, 
but also having an outlook in the direction of the railroad and the beautiful 
rural landscape to the east. ]Mr. Keys is one of the early residents of 
Glendale, and has ample grounds, well filled Avith flowers, shrubbery, and 
young forest trees. His premises are accessible, tasteful, and attractive. 

Adjoining this on the north is the new residence of the Rev. William H. 
Babbitt, a tasteful two-story frame, erected in 1868, on Woodbine avenue, 
with neatly-arranged grounds. 

Adjoining jMi-. Babbitt's is the recent residence of Charles H. Wardlow, 



94 S-bLhiLi^hs of UiriGZTZTzcbtz. 

who has just removed to IMiddletowii, the property, we beheve, of J. J. 
Packer. It is a neat two-story frame dwelling, with an airy veranda facing 
the avenue, and with pleasant surroundings. 

On the east side of the railroad there have been comparatively few 
dwellings erected. The lands are by no means unattractive, but they are 
not so beautiful as those west of the road. Besides, the poj^ulation is 
largely on the west side, and population, we know, is gregarious. A few 
good dwellings are on the east, among them the late residence of Dr. A. L. 
Scovill, on Sharon avenue, recently purchased by ex-Mayor Crawford, a 
two-story brick edifice ; also, the brick dwelling erected two years ago by 
the late Judge Morse, now occupied by N. H. Chapman, a commodious 
building, commanding a good \^ew, and surrounded by broad, beautiful 
grounds. 

In the distance, occupying a charming and commanding spot, is the resi- 
dence of Colonel Crafts J. Wright. Handsomely-sloping lands, graveled 
drives, a profusion of flowers, placid landscapes, a fuU view of Glendale — 
all combine to make Col. Wright's place one of the most beautiful and 
desirable of Cincinnati's surroundings. 

Between his house and the village are the dwelling of Wm. Chairman 
and the nursery and gardens of Thomas Underwood. 

Immediately adjoining Col. Wright's, on the east, is the place of William 
Proctor, Jr., who has about eighteen acres of elevated land, scarcely less 
beautiful in situation than that of his neighbor. He has a commodious 
two-story brick residence, with verandas on both south and west. The 
house is tastefully finished, and surrounded with beautiful forest and shade 
trees. 

On the verge of the village there are many places of comfort and beauty 
springing up, which must, ere long, become a part of Glendale j)roper. 

In the northern part of the village, on Jefferson avenue, is the tasteful 
story-and-a-half cottage of R. K. Brown. 

Adjoining Mr, Brown's is the residence of W. M. Yeatman, who has 
seventeen acres of undulating land, that rolls gently to the southward 



G-lendcble. 95 

His dwelling is a comfortable two-story frame, occupying a pleasant 
site. 

Captain JMurray lias a neat one-story frame cottage, recently erected, and 
N, L. Bernard, jiL-«t above the former, has a tasteful two-story frame resi- 
dence, with roomy verandas, shrubbery, and flo^vers. 

Adjoining both Mr. Brown's and jNIr. Yeatman's are the premises of 
E. L. Thomas, consisting of eighty-four acres of finely-improved land, with 
a two-story dwellmg that occupies a commanding position and has inviting 
surroundings. 

In the north-western part of the village, as well as in some other locali- 
ties, many small dwelHngs have in the past few years been erected. These 
are princijially occupied by the laboring classes, and are more numerous in 
the vicinity of the Catholic Church than elsewhere. 

South of the village, but immediately adjoining it, D. ^I. INIarsh, in 
1869, erected a capacious two-story brick dwelling, amply provided with 
verandas and modern conveniences, and surromided by broad grounds. 



GOVERNMENT. 

One of the favorable features of Glendale is that it is well governed. 
Its good citizens do not allow things to take care of themselves, or, what is 
about as bad, commit them to persons whose only business is politics. 
They participate in elections, and allow themselves to be used as the officers 
of the corporation. The following are the municipal officers for the year 
1870-71: 

Mayor — S. T. Crawford. 

Clerk— A. C. Tyler. 

Treasurer — R. H. Wood. 

Council — C. H. Allen, Iv. K. Brown, C. C. Kohl, George W. 
Gallager, J. J, Packer, C. J. Wright. 

Marshal — M. Dooley. 



96 S-ubhiyLi'^hs of CzTLoiixncbti. . 

The regulations of the village are such as to completely protect property, 
there being no necessity of closing gates either by night or day. 



STORES. 

Among the good features of Glendale are the general stores that have 
been enticed to the place. These provide so -well for the wants of the fam- 
ily that it is quite vmnecessary to go away from the village, save for 
articles of considerable value. There are four stores, belonging to John 
Walsh, J. J. Parker, R. H. Wood, and Wm. H. Blair. These gentlemen 
came to Glendale in the order in which their names here appear. They 
generally have commodious business rooms, and have their residences, we 
believe, under the roof each of his respective store. 

The place is regularly and abundantly furnished with good meats, and 
vegetables are supplied, if desired, from the neighboring gardens, though 
the citizens generally raise on their ample grounds all of the latter that 
their wants demand. 

ACCESSIBILITY. 

Glendale is l^y rail fifteen miles from Cincinnati, and by the Carthage 
turnpike eleven miles. The distance by the latter renders it less desirable 
than many other suburbs to persons who wish to reach the city by their 
own conveyances. There is, however, a redeeming feature about this that 
goes far to compensate for the inconvenience of reaching Cincinnati by pri- 
vate conveyance. It saves its inhabitants from visitors that would other- 
wise, on the Sabbath, as well as at other times, swarm in their streets, and 
build up beer and wine gardens that would rob them of their quiet, and 
soon convert Glendale into quite another community. 

Again, it is upon a railroad that now offers ample facilities to persons Avho 
desire to reside in the village and transact business in Cincinnati. In coming- 
in on the usual trains about forty-five minutes are consumed. Trains run 
upon the road at all times during the day when it is desirable either to 



G-lendcble. . 97 



leave Glendale or return. Trains that stop at this village now reach the 
city at 6:50, 7:30, 8:05, and 10:40 a. m., and 2:15, 6:30, and 10:15 
p. M.; returning, leave Cincinnati at 7:15 and 9:30 A. m., and 2:30, 4:00, 
5:30, 6:30, and 9:45 r. m. On Snndays a train reaches the city at 7:00 
A. M. and departs at 9:45 p. m. This general arrangement Avill scarcely 
be changed, save to still further increase the facilities of reaching and 
departing from the city. 

Under the present system of commutation tickets adopted by the road, a 
ticket can be purchased for twenty-five dollars, forty -five dollars, and sev- 
enty-five dollars, for three months, six months, and twelve months, respect- 
ively, that will entitle the o^^•ner thereof to pass over the road from Cincin- 
nati to Glendale or return, on all the trains that sto}) at the latter place, as 
many times a day as he desires. This does not permit a man's family, or 
any person save the owner of the ticket, to use the road, but it furnishes to 
all who avail themselves of this arrangement the privileges of the trains 
alluded to at the rate of less than twenty-four cents per day. This, it will 
be observed, is less than one cent per mile, admitting the holder to pass 
over the road, both Avays, once per day. Tickets for school children are 
sold at half these rates. 

Another system used by this road is that of disccnuit tickets, to be sold 
in numbers of not less than twenty-five, to and between all stations on the 
road from Cincinnati to Dayton, where the fare is thirty cents and upward, 
at a discount of twenty per cent, from the regular local rates. These may 
be used by the purchaser, members of his family, or employes, or given to 
other persons, though the company will not permit them to be resold. 

Thus we see that persons doing business in the city can be here for busi- 
ness in ample time, and, indeed, with the same convenience that citizens 
can who live at less remote points and have to depend upon their own con- 
veyances. The time consumed each trip is regarded by many })ersons with 
disfavor, but in some respects it can not be denied the expenditure is profit- 
able. "There is that scattereth and yet increaseth." A man who has 
been crowded with business during the day, and on all sides beset Avith its 



98 BiLhTii^hs of OzjzGinizcLti. 

cares, wants relaxation; and he who teaches a business man how most 
easUy and perfectly to dismiss the cares of the day when he enters the 
portals of his home, makes no small contribution to the sum of human hap- 
piness. In the first place, a man at Glendale cultivates the habit of ceas- 
ing work at a certain hour. However hard he may labor for the time 
being, he does not entertain the idea of postponing his departure beyond 
the regular period, because he does not control the departure of the train. 
Again, the railroad company has a car that is specially set apart for Glen- 
dale passengers, so that the moment a man enters he is at once among a 
considerable number of his acquaintances. With these he engages in con- 
versation that rapidly dislodges the burdens of business or the perplexities 
of pubhc duties. Or, if he chooses, he reads the evening papers, and, in 
the midst of the world's events, soon forgets the load with which he leaves 
his counting-room or office. If he chooses to do neither, but rather to look 
out upon the panorama of loveliness that swiftly ghdes before liim, and 
watch the play of the fight of the declining sun upon the adjacent hills, and 
the shadows in the valleys, as evening prepares the sweet fields and pleasant 
homes for the drapery of the night, what could more successfully relieve 
him of the harness of the day, and prepare him, with cheerfulness and 
gratitude, to approach the loved ones who anxiously await his commg ? 



CONCLUSION. 

Thus we have endeavored to give a picture of another of the beautiful 
surroundings of Cincinnati. If it is not acceptable, it is the fault of the 
artist, not the subject, for the latter abounds in a combination of attrac- 
tions that distinguishes it among the many beautiful suburbs of this city. 

Nor is the village finished. Each year the roads are improved, new 
dwellings erected, and new inhabitants attracted to its quiet borders. 
A town hall wUl soon be erected, the council having been authorized by 
a vote of the people to build a brick edifice for municipal purposes that 
shall have rooms for the public offices, besides a hall for general meetings. 



G-lendcble. 99 



A company lias been formed for the erection of gas works, and permis- 
sion granted to run pipes through the avenues. In a comparatively short 
time petroleum and candles will have been supplanted by coal gas, and 
dwellings and streets will alike bid farewell to one of the serious objections 
that can be urged against much of our suburban property. 

The great advantage about Glendale is, that it is a complete community. 
Too far removed from the city to depend upon it for general society or 
amusement, it becomes a society itself, bound together as well by common 
necessity and the intimate friendships that frequent intercourse fosters, as 
by common effort to supply the Avant of entertainment and amusement 
which absence from the city occasions. 

Again, society is not alone thus created and fostered, but finds, to some 
extent, a common cement in similar education and tastes. The inhabitants 
are generally intelligent and refined, and their influence is expended 
on such objects as promote the public good. Then, too, there is an influ- 
ence silently working that is no less potent because of the quiet manner in 
which it employs its forces. A school of high grade will temper a com- 
munity and leave an impress upon its character. The inhabitants may not 
be fully aAvare of the work that is going on, but it is nevertheless reaching 
out its roots through the very foundations of society, and quietly, with its 
fibers, permeating every household within its reach. 

With ample church facihties, excellent schools, refined society, whole- 
some government, combined with accessibility, beauty, and healthfulness, 
Glendale is, indeed, one of the most charming of the country places that 
now hang like pearls around the neck of the Queen City of the West, and 
adorn the crown that rests so becomingly upon her l)row. 



'jvi'Q-Vj^T ^^^^H^ AND i:;.pHHYYliL-i;. 



S 



EARLY HISTORY. 

5 6) 




OUNT AUBURIST, to most persons who have visited Cincinnati, 
needs no introduction. Its early settlement, its proximity to the 
citv, its natural and artificial beauty, have all combined to acquaint 

vafo]^ ... . : 

^ both citizens and strangers with its attractions. For a time it was 
purely suburban, and, indeed, almost the only i)lace of the kind about Cin- 
cinnati. Of late years, however, it has undergone a change. The city 
crowding up the hillside, and its citizens seeking an outlet from crowded 
streets below, have changed the whole aspect of affairs, and really made 
Mount Auburn a part of Cincinnati. 

The fact that tlie property is well known, and that to describe it would 
be like undertaking such a work in the thickly-settled city, is a sufficient 
reason for varying from the rule observed hitherto of entering into a 
detailed description of private improvements. The reader, consequently, 
must be content with a description of the public institutions and a very few 
of the notable private improvements, together with such other matters per- 
taining to jNIount Auburn and its contiguous territory — Corryville and 
Vernonville — as may be of general interest. 

That which was originally known as Mount Auburn was embraced witlrin 
the limits of section 13, in Millcreek township. This was conveyed by 
John Cleves Symmes to James Henry. There was a peculiarity about the 



J^oubTit jlubbuu-m cLTid, CoTTyville. 101 

conveyances of ^NIv. Rynmies, inasmuch as lie reserved a square tract of 
land, consisting of one hundred and six and two-thirds acres in the north- 
east corner of each section, which he called the "forfeiture." He would 
convey the section with the condition annexed, that if the grantee did not 
enter upon the land and occupy it, or was not represented l)y an actual set- 
tler, the "forfeiture" should revert to the grantor, to be conferred upon 
some j^erson who would actually make a settlement. 

His object was to procure inhabitants, to open up the country, and to 
render it absolutely certain that, on each section, there should be some one to 
begin the work of subduing the forest and tilling the soil. In the case of 
this section, ^Ir. Henry nt^t entering upon the land, the "forfeiture" finally 
became the pi'operty of John Vance, who sold it to Levi and William 
AVoodward. The conveyance to Levi AVoodwai'd was made February 18, 
1793. Thi^ embraced lands east of the }.Iad river road, the location of 
which was nearly the same as the present Auburn street, and known on the 
records as "out-lots for the town of Cincinnati." It will be observed that 
in those days they were not unwilling to call Avhat was to be the Queen 
City, with its hundreds of thousands, a "town." ^Nlr. Woodward's por- 
tion of the purchase lay west of the road. The remainder of the section 
Avas conveyed by James Henry to Israel Ludlow, August 24, 1800. 
From this time forward the lands underwent more frequent changes, and 
were sold, from time to time, in smaller parcels. 

Among those who figure upon the records in the earlier period of jMount 
Auburn, are General James Findlay, Gorham A. Worth, Thomas Hughes, 
James Keys, John Bigclow, and Hugh Glenn. Later, appear the names 
of James G. Speer, whose house stood where Mr. jNIitchell's house has since 
been built, Robert ^McGregor, Osmond Cogswell, Samuel Williams, and 
James Cooper, whose residence was on the site of the Baptist Church. Still 
farther from the city was the home of George Arbcgust, who removed 
to the place near where Mr. Bullock has recently erected his residence, 
in January, 1826. The Ludlow property passed into various hands, 
several tracts being sold in parcels of about thirty acres, with frontage 



102 B'bbh'bbi^hs of CinGznnati. 

on the section line, noAV Liberty street. One of these was subse- 
quently owned by Thomas Hughes, whose name is associated with the 
public schools of Cincinnati in a manner so enduring that it will, 
with that of Mr. Woodward, go down to other generations closely linked 
with the name of the city itself. Another one of them became the 
property of Arthur Henry, the north half of which was sold to James 
Keys, April 17, 1819. This embraced the brow of the hill at the head of 
Sycamore street. On the summit Mr. Keys erected a dwelling, which yet 
stands, and which was among the earliest, if not the first, country residences 
erected in this locality. This Avas known as "Keys' Hill," and continued 
so until about the year 1837, when it Avas changed to Mount Auburn. 

Who is entitled to the honor of suggesting the latter name, is a mooted 
question. It has been supposed by many that the late Dr. Reuben D. 
Mussey should ha\'e the credit, Avhile others are inclined to confer the honor 
upon Eden B. Reeder. INIr. Reeder aAvards the credit to the late Samuel 
W^illiams, and gives a somewhat circumstantial account of the part Mr. 
WDliams took in the matter. Mr. Williams' son, hoAvever, is quite con- 
fident that Mr. Reeder is mistaken, and feels satisfied his father belie\'ed 
the suggestion AA'as made by INIrs. Sumner, concerning Avhom a correspond- 
ent has said : 

"The honor belongs, Ave belieA'e, to Mrs. Sumner, the mother of Mrs. 
Wm. Street, afterAvard Mrs. Augustus C. Hopkins. SeA^eral names had 
previously been proposed, among these Montesano, or 'Mountain of 
Health;' but, in the incertitude and hesitation as to the name, Mrs. Sum- 
ner, or, perhaps, Osmond CogSAvell or Dr. Elzar Flagg, at her suggestion, 
procured a painted sign-board, and erected it as a finger post at the foot of 
the hill, on Liberty street, AA'ith the simple legend, 'Mount Auburn, 1 
mile.' This fixed the name, Avithout any public meeting or other public 
statement of preference. Mrs. Sumner was from Ncav England, Avhere the 
name Mount Auburn was just coming into repute as the locahty of the 
beautiful cemetery at Boston." 

About the time of Mr Keys' location, Gorham A. Worth, cashier of the 



JVLo-iLTit Jl-ubhub-rTh cbnoL Co-rTyville. 103 

Branch Bank of the United States, erected here a country residence. 
This buikling and the lands became the property of Robert McGregor, 
whose heirs, in 1868, disposed of a part of the latter in the well-known 
McGregor subdivision. The house is now owned and occupied by Truman 
B. Handy, and, with the exception of some additions recently made, is 
very much as it was at that early period. Mr. Wortli may have erected 
the dwelling before Mr. Keys' settlement here, inasmuch as the conveyance 
made to Mr. Worth was May 6, 1818, a year earlier than that of Mr. 
Keys. A cotemporary of these Avas John Bigelow, who purchased, Octo- 
ber 11, 1820, the property embracing Hopkins Park. Here, on the brow 
of the hill, he erected the frame dwelling noAv owned by the Rev. J. i\I. 
Reid, D.D., of the jNIethodist Episcoj)al Church, and until recently occu- 
pied by that distinguished INIethodist divine. This was the beginning of 
INIount Auburn. 

A NEW ERA. 

About the year 1838 the old IMad river road, which was early known as 
Wayne's trace, was changed by the county commissioners to the present 
location of Auburn street. The old road ran along the crest of the hill, 
about where the residences of Adam N, Riddle and Eden B. Reeder now 
stand. This was rough and difficult of ascent. The improvement of the 
new road was almost at once begun, and though this was not itself the 
beginning of a new era at Mount Auburn, it was one of the changes that 
marked the period at which the place entered upon its career of suburban 
prosperity. Various improvements followed, among which was the resi- 
dence of Hugh Glenn, built in 1833, on a tract of seventeen acres. This 
subsequently became the property of John McCormick, who renv^ved the 
old building and erected the one now occupied by his widow. 

About the same time ]Mr. Woodward began selling lots of from two to 
three acres, though there was no subdivision, nor wa.s there any such thing 
as the numbering of lots, until the sale of the McGregor property, to 
which allusion has been made. 



104 S'Ubh'LLT'bs of Ci^-rhGinncbti. 

The first of these lots was purchased by James G. Sj)eer, for which he 
paid one hundred dollars per acre. Subsequently he sold similar lots at 
about the same rate. The difference between that and present prices, of 
about two hundred dollars per foot for lots of ordinary depth, enables the 
reader to see the remarkable change that has taken place since that time. 



WITHIN CITY LIjMITS. 

Until recently only about one-half of JNIount Auburn Avas within the 
corporate limits of the city, the northern boundai-y of which was IMc^Iillan 
street, that runs immediately north of the jNIethodist Episcopal Church in 
Mount Auburn. In the month of INIarch, of this year, aU of Mount 
Auburn not previously included was annexed to the city, and now foi'ms a 
part of both the Eleventh and Twenty-thiixl Wards. The Eleventh AVard 
embraces the territory extending from Liberty street on the south to Mc]Mil- 
lan street on the north, and from Burnet avenue on the east to a line run- 
ning north from the intersection of Main street with Liberty street. The 
Twenty-third Ward includes the whole of Section 14, running from Burnet 
avenue on the east to the west line of the section, and from jVIcMillau 
street northwardly to the north section line. 



AVENUES. 

The main avenue of Mount Auburn is Auburn street, into which Syca- 
more street directly leads. This runs from its intersection with Saunders 
street, in a northerly direction, until it unites with Vine street in Corry- 
ville. It is sixty feet wide, has good sidewalks, and, since 1867, has had 
the Nicolson pavement, which makes it one of the finest drives in the coun- 
try. Here are to be found the greater number of residences, though there 
are many excellent improvements on other streets. 

The first avenue intersecting this on the right, after passing Saunders 
street, is Southern avenue, about fifty feet wide, and well improved to the 



J\£o-bbnt jx-uubvuTTi cuTzci CoTTyuilLe. 105 

brow of the hill that overlooks the Deercreek valley and Lebanon road. 
This is well paved and curbed, and is provided with sidewalks. There 
are many good residences on this avenue, which is a very quiet one, 
and rapidly improving. 

Albion Place, between Hon. Samuel S. Fisher's and Mrs. Blunt's, an 
avenue opened by L. C. Hopkins, is as yet but little improved. 

INIcGregor avenue, formerly Central avenue, is sixty feet Avide and well 
improved. About one year ago the grade was so changed as to materiall}- 
benefit the adjacent property. It is confidently expected that the avenue 
wUl very soon be opened through to the Lebanon road or Hunt street. 

Summit avenue, on the north side of the Cincinnati Orphan Asylum, 
is fifty feet wide, well paved and improved. At present this runs onl}' a 
short distance beyond the asylum, though it will, doubtless, at some time, 
be continued to Vine street. There are on this, several tasteful dwellings. 
This avenue is about the only one of consequence on the west side of 
Auburn, save j\Iason street, which is a narrow street between the lots of 
Judge Stallo and R. A, Holden, Esq., on which there are three or four 
residences. 

Estelle street, on the south of Islx. Riddle's, is thirty feet wide. This, 
however, at this time, has but one improvement upon it, save those front- 
ing on the main avenue. 

The next avenue in importance to Auburn street is Auburn avenue. 
The latter leaves the former a little way beyond ilc^Iillan street, and 
runs in a north-easterly direction until it reaches Highland avenue, a short 
distance south of the residence of jNIr. Shillito. It will be observed, the 
only difierence between this and the main street is, that the latter is called 
Auburn street, while the former is known as Auburn avenue. 

In addition to these, a street fifty feet in width is being opened by Jason 
Evans and George K. Shoenberger, from Auburn street to Vine street, 
leaving the former immediately south of the residence of B. S. Cunning- 
ham. This street will have a plain, easy grade to Vine street, and will be 
macadamized and well improved. 



106 jSzoTdjltTds of Ci'izozizTzcLti. 

Nearer the old parts of the city, along and in the vicinity of the Mount 
Auburn street railroad, streets have been opened during the past few 
years, some of which have on them attractive as well as expensive resi- 
dences. Of these, Bigelow, Saunders, and Josephine streets are the most 
important, though improvements have been multiplying along Einggold and 
Price, as well as other streets. 



RESIDENCES. 

On either side of Auburn street, Mount Auburn is exceedingly well 
built up. The houses are more closely situated, and the whole appearance 
is more of an approximation to the city than any other suburb. In that 
part of the city lying east of Hopkins Park, which has been made accessible 
by the street railway, the improvements are nearly all recent. Avenues 
have been opened, curbs set, and, in many cases, the streets macadamized 
and paved. In the vicinity of the tasteful residences of Judge Noyes, 
Hugh Stewart, and W. H. Doane, deep ravines have been filled, and a 
new appearance put upon the whole locality. 

The residences of Mount Auburn are distinguished for their comfortable 
appearance and general tastefulness. They are usually owned by the per- 
sons occupying them, who have consulted neatness rather than display, 
and cultivated flowers and shrubbery rather than sweeping lawns and 
extensive drives. Unlike other suburbs, the old dwellings and the new are 
side by side, the one bearing the French roof and extensive ornamentation, 
the other modestly wearing the simplicity of the earlier days. 



RESIDENCE OF JOHN SHILLITO. 

The most notable private improvement is within the former limits of 
Corryville, and yet, like the German Orphan Asylum and Widows' Home, 
it is recognized as a part of Mount Auburn, to which all these very 
naturally belong. We refer to that of John Shillito. 



J^oubTht JhjJDUbTTi and Co-rTyuille. 107 

The lot comprises an entire sqnure, tlie northern lialt of which i.s 
improved to show the building to the best advantiige. AVith lands gently 
rising to the spot occupied by the residence, with an abundance of e\'er- 
greens and young shade trees, and splendid graveled drives, the surround- 
ings, for their age, have not their superior about Cincinnati. The whole is 
inclosed by a substantial wall, finished with cut molded coping of freestone. 

The style of the building is Elizabethan. It has a frontage on Highland 
avenue of over eighty feet, and on Oak street of one hundred and live. 
The material is blue limestone. The walls are broken ashlar work, A\ith 
angles, windows, and doorways heavily trimmed with freestone, and a cor- 
nice consti'ucted entirely of the same material. What distinguishes this 
building from many others built of this limestone, is the large quantity of 
freestone entering into its composition, by which the structure is entirely 
relieved from an appearance of coldness. This at once dissipates the 
appearance of the castle, and clothes it in the warmth of the hospitable 
home. The building is entered through a magnificent stone porch, eleven 
feet by eight feet six inches, ornamented and faced, within and without, 
by tooled stone work. 

The hall running east and west through the building is twenty feet wide 
at its greatest breadth, and is finished with walnut ^vainscoting, which sur- 
rounds panels in fresco. Here, after the English custom, is the old-fash- 
ioned fire-place, six feet wide, for l)urning wood. Over it is an elegantly- 
wrought black walnut mantel, surmounted by three human figures, repre- 
senting Peace, Plenty, and Harmony. The hall is surrounded by a heavy 
black walnut cornice, that borders a handsomely-frescoed ceiling. The floor 
of the hall is composed of white and black mai'l)le tiling. On the left 
ascends the magnificent staircase of black and white walnut, exqui.-itely 
carved and highly polished. 

On the south of the hall, in the south-west corner of the buildino-, is the 
reception room, eighteen l)y nineteen feet, connected with the drawiu"- 
room on the east by lai-ge double doors. The latter is a capacious room, 
twenty by thirty feet. The walls and ceilings of lioth are frescoed in 



108 B-LLbiuTbs of CinGinncbt'b. 

admirable taste, the colors and tints being of unusual beauty, and happily 
adapted to each other. In the reception room the mantel is of red Lisbon 
and Ijlack Ij'ish marbles, the latter forming the background. That in the 
dra^Ying room is pure white Italian. The shelf of this is supported by 
statues of Summer and AVinter, and the whole sustains a French mirror 
oxtending thence to the ceiling. The floor is rare marquetry, into which 
oak and walnut largely enter. Two features of the room are the etagere, a 
piece of elegant furniture, finished in mosaic, and the chandelier of twelve 
burners, consisting wholly of glass. The woodwork of these rooms, as well 
as of other apartments, consists of oak and mahogany. 

On the north of the hall, in the north-west corner of the building, is the 
library, eighteen feet square, finished with black walnut wainscoting, picked 
with ebony ornaments. The carving about the mantel of this room is of 
an exquisite character. The pilasters which support the entablature are 
ornamented with the busts of celebrated literary characters, carved in 
expensive woods. The ceiling consists of black w^alnut, wdth panels fin- 
ished in fresco. The floor is a piece of beautiful marquetry, consisting of 
alternate hexagonal blocks of oak and black waLuut. In completeness and 
richness, there is no room of the mansion that is superior to this. 

The dining room, which is on the north side of the hall, and immediately 
opposite the draAving room, is twenty-seven by eighteen feet. The walls of 
this luxurious apartment are richly wainscoted with polished oak surround- 
ing mahogany panels. The floor, like the other rooms, is marquetry, 
though of a diflferent pattern. On the east is a large side board, built with 
the house. This extends to the cornice, which is of heavy oak. On the 
east is an open grate, v,\t\\ a mantel of the same material as the cornice, 
upon which there is some of the most elegant carving in the house. On 
the north is a large bay window, looking out upon the beautiful lawn and 
to the splendid landscape which is spread out on the north-west. Adjoining 
this is a complete china closet, to the rear of which are a breakfast room 
and kitchen. 

The second story, in its subdivisions, does not vary materially from the 



JAoubnt JirubhubTTi cunoL OoTTyviVle. 109 

first. The bed chambers, four in number, are twenty by eighteen feet. 
They are finished with black wahiut, oak, and mahogany — the latter gener- 
ally composing the panels. These apartments are all frescoed, and, as 
below, the tints are in admirable taste. Adjoining each chamber is a large 
closet, almost meriting the name of room, containing batli tub, permanent 
washstand, supplies of hot and cold water, and every possible convenience. 

All the glass used about the house is French plate, two panes to the win- 
dow. The furniture, in general, has been made to harmonize with the 
house, the same idea which is developed in the finish of the building having 
been carried out in the other. The attic is sufficiently capacious for five 
comfortable chambers. 

The same may be said of ]Mr. Shillito's location that has been said 
of many others. The excellent building sites are so numerous about Cin- 
cinnati that no one, fortimately, can enjo}' a monopoly t>f them. The one 
occupied and improved to-day only opens the way for another, to be pos- 
sessed by some one else to-morrow. In the vicinity of the city one range 
of hills succeeds another, so that there is scarcely a limit to the beautiful 
locations for suburban homes. ]Mr. Shillito and Mr. Bullock, who are 
neighbors, both enjoy in all directions superb landscapes. The configura- 
tion of the laud hides the roads that are near. jNIount Auburn, AValnut 
Hills, and Clifton, from various points, are clearly revealed ; while, still 
farther away, the undulating farms and forests, and distant hills, make up 
a background which each season clothes in its own peculiar beauty. 

It is but just to state here that the completeness, beauty, and char- 
acter of the place is largely attributable to James W. ^McLaughlin, the 
well-known architect, and Truman B. Handy, who built the house with 
the expectation of occupying it liimself, but subsequently sold it to Mr. 
ShiUito, who removed to it on its completion, during the holidays of 18G6. 



110 SziLzo'^/ds of CznoirLTicLti. 



EESIDENCE OF A. D. BULLOCK. 

Bounded l\y the Lebanon road on the east and the section line or Burnet 
avenue on the west, in a district called Vernon Yillaiie, which, though 
claimed by both Mount Auburn and AValnut Hills, has had for many years 
a name of its own, by Avhich it has been known both on maps and deeds. 

This locality is a part of Slount Auburn, to which it is adjacent, and 
from which it has been sej^arated by nothing but geographical lines. Run- 
ning through this little settlement is Oak street, on the south side of which 
is the old home of A. D. Bullock, now the property of the estate of the 
late James Wilson. The comfortable house is ensconced in shrubbery and 
shade trees, and i^ a place of decided retirement and repose. 

Immediately opj^osite, on a j^art of the Arbegust proj^erty, which old 
Cincinnatians remember as the former headquarters for the best strawber- 
ries and cream, and the choicest vegetables, Mr. Bullock, ui 1868, erected 
a residence of the Itahan style, which will compare favorably with any 
Avithin the suburbs of Cincinnati. The material is blue limestone, with 
freestone cap* and water tables. The walls are broken ashlar work, with 
tooled corners. The roof is covered with blue slate. The main hall, run- 
ning north and south, is apj^roached through a massive stone porch, nine- 
teen by twelve feet. The former is fifteen feet wide by twenty-eight feet 
in length, and terminates in another hall, ten feet in width by thirty-three 
feet in length. Apj)roaching the main hall from the east is a third hall, 
fifteen by twenty feet, in which the main staircase is located. 

In the south-east corner of the building is a reception room, fifteen by 
sixteen feet, communicating with the side hall. Immediately opposite, on 
the west side of the main hall, are the library and drawing rooms, the for- 
mer running north and south, and terminating m front in a large bay win- 
dow, and the other east and west, with a similar window looking to the 
Avest. These rooms are in direct communication with each other. Imme- 
diately east of the drawing room, on the opposite side of the main haU, is 



Jd^ouLTit jluuhuuTTh and Co-rTyuille. Ill 

the spacious dining room, twenty-six and one-half by seventeen and one- 
half feet, with conservatory on the east, seventeen and one-half by twelve 
feet, the whole making a room of magnificent dimensions. These four 
rooms and the halls are so admirably adapted to each other, and are in such 
perfect communication, that there seems no room for the suggestion of the 
smallest improvement. On the same floor are the china closet, kitchen, and 
laundry. The floors of the first story are generally of beautiful marquetry, 
the hall and dining room of black walnut and oak, and the parlor of oak 
alone. 

One of the noticeable features of the house is the staircase, which con- 
sists of English short flights, each leading to a Inroad landing — the whole 
constructed of black and white walnut. 

The second floor corresponds with the arrangement below. The cham- 
bers are large and provided with bath rooms, hot and cold water, and every 
modern convenience. The main building has an attic, Avith six large bed 
chambers. The house is finished throughout with black walnut and Avhite 
pine, and with painted walls and frescoed ceilings. All the glass used is 
French plate, with two panes to the window. On the east side of tlie 
builchng is a spacious veranda, fifteen feet wide. From the south-east cor- 
ner rises a square tower sixty-four feet in hight, from which landscapes of 
rare beauty and extent are enjoyed throughout the year. It is not an 
exaggeration to say that Mr. Bullock has one of the most desirable places 
in the vicinity of Cincinnati. Accessible from all points, and yet by no 
means public, his location is one of the best. His grounds, nine acres in 
extent, are elevated and beautiful. From his residence he enjoys the 
.extensive landscapes in which all this district abounds. The grounds have 
been improved under the superintendence of jNIessrs. Strauch and Nerney, 
well-known landscape gardeners of Cincinnati. The architect of the build- 
ing is Mr. Notman, of Philadelpliia, and the builder Truman B. Handy. 



112 BiLhiyLThs of CinGinncbii. 



RESIDENCE OF A. H. HINKLE. 

Among the new improvements is the residence of A. H. Hinlde, on a 
lot purchased, two years ago, at the McGregor sale. The lot, as all know 
who have noticed it, is an elevated one, from which the building shows to 
the best advantage. 

The house is of the modern French style, constructed of brick with stone 
quoins, and elaborate stone trimmings about the windows — the latter con- 
sisting of complete slender stone piUars supporting entablatures. The 
extreme dimensions, including porch, are sixty-eight by ninety feet. On 
the south rises a square tower, the sunnnit of wliich is eighty-five feet from 
the ground. The building is entered through a stone portico, flanked by 
verandas. The latter, on the south, passes around and connects with the 
tower. The floor and base of the veranda are of stone, while the remain- 
der of this part of the structure is of hard wood. The main hall, at its 
greatest width, is fourteen feet, and its total length fifty-eight feet. In the 
south-west corner is a reception room, sixteen feet square. A smaller hall 
on the south leads from the tower to the maui hall. The drawing room, 
sixteen by thirty feet, with a bay window on the north, five by ten feet, 
occupies the north-west part of the edifice. In the rear of the drawing 
room is the library, sixteen feet square, while immediately opjDOsite, on the 
south of the main hall, the family room, sixteen by twenty-four feet, is 
located. The latter has a bay window, five by eight feet, looking to the 
south. The dining room, sixteen by twenty-three feet, is in the rear of the 
family room. Attached to this is the butler's, china, and store rooms, 
that communicate with the kitchen and laundry, located in the basement. 

The second story, in its arrangement, corresponds with the first. Each 
chamber has connected with it a room containing washing and bathing 
apparatus. The attic is roomy, and is arranged for sleeping apartments. 

The building is splendidly finished in five or six varieties of hard wood, 
and plentifully supplied with modern conveniences. Extensive closets, Hned 



jVLouunt jhjbhujTTh cund, CoTTyuille. 113 

with cedar and furnished with cedar drawers, are constructed in the house, 
and the Avhole building is supplied with hot and cold water. An elevator 
for the transportation of heavy articles is provided, in addition to a glazed 
earthen tube, twelve inches in diameter, which extends fi'om the attic to the 
laundry in the basement, through which the soiled clothing is passed from 
each floor. 

The house is heated by Brown's hot-water furuace, the smoke-stack of 
which passes up through a ventilating shaft in the center of the building, 
which extends from the cellar to the roof. Into this shaft ranges are con- 
structed in such manner as to completely ventilate the surrounding rooms. 

The glass used throughout is French plate, two panes to the window. 
The architect is A. C. Nash, of this city, who has had general supervision 
of the erection of the ]:)uilding. The carpenter work, which is very supe- 
rior, was done by James Griffith & Son. 

Mr. Hinkle has a place of rare beauty. The elaborate stone ornamenta- 
tion, which is in striking contrast ^vith many of the more expensive resi- 
dences of the city, gives it an air of unusual cheerfulness. In addition to 
the splendid edifice, the location affords one of the finest prospects on 
Blount Auburn. 

EESIDEXCE OF JASON EVAXS. 

Among the excellent private residences of this locality is that of Jason 
Evans, on the north side of Auburn avenue. Though it is his former res- 
idence remodeled, still it has been so changed and improved that it presents 
the appearance of a new buildmg, and is a place that any observer would 
mark as the home of a substantial citizen. The building presents a main 
front of fifty-two feet, Avith Avings of eighteen feet each, making a whole 
frontage of eighty-eight feet. It is constructed of brick with freestone 
quoins and trimmings. The structure is two stories, with observatory, an 
oriel window on the west, and verandas stretching on either side. The 
location affords a splendid view of the surrounding country, and the whole 
place is distinguished by an appearance of elegance and comfort. 



114 SzohiLi'^hs of O^ixoiixi-zcbti. 

A valuable private enterj)rise, that will also prove a desirable public 
improvement, is the extensive work now being done by the Huntington 
brothers, at the head of Sycamore street. Having interests on the west 
side of Auburn street, as weU as in the rear of the property contiguous to 
it, they are engaged in extending Saunders street westwardly, and con- 
structing a substantial stone wall, which will protect both the property and 
street for all time. This street, upon the very iDrow of the hill, Avith its 
foundations of solid rock, will overlook the city, and open up for residences 
a district hitherto almost inapproachable. In addition, they are cutting 
down this part of the hill very considerably, and improving the general 
appearance of the locality in no small degree. These gentlemen, no doubt, 
are expecting to get a pecuniary return for their heavy outlay ; but it is 
proper to commend those who, while they consult their own interests, also 
make their expenthtures contribute to the general good. 



CHURCHES. 

The Mount Auburn Methodist Episcopal Church was organized in 1851. 
The first quarterly conference was held on the 12th day of December, in 
that year, and consisted of the Rev. John F. Wright, presiding elder, the 
Rev. Charles H. Lawton, and Messrs, Richard Ashcraft, Moses Brooks, and 
Joshua VandcAvater. Among the early members were Job Stevens, George 
McCuUough, John Mears, Samuel Williams, and H. Strobridge. One of 
the prime movers was Thomas Jennings, who Avas also superintendent of 
the first Sabbath-school organized in this locality. In 1852 they erected, 
on the south-Avest corner of Auburn and the present McMillan street, a 
brick church, forty-five by seA'^enty feet. The house has frescoed AvaEs ; is 
carpeted and Avell finished. In the basement are good Bible and infant- 
class rooms, and still beloAV them the sexton's apartments. The Sabbath- 
school, in charge of James S. Burdsal, has an average attendance of about 
one hundred and thirty-five scholars and tAvelve teachers, and is held at 
nine o'clock in the morning. The membership of the church is not large, 



J£oijbnt jlijbhubTTi cLTid, CoTTyville. 115 



but has been considerably increased diu'ing the last year under the labors of 
the Rev. John W. Peters, the present pastor. 

The Mount Auburn Baptist Church Avas organized in 1853. The cir- 
cumstances which led to the organization are peculiar and interesting. As 
three gentlemen — H. Thane ^Miller, E. A. Holden, and Isaac Rassell — 
were returning from an afternoon Sabbath-school in the city, under a tree, 
just west of Judge Stallo's present residence, they saw five boys and two 
girls. They stopped in the shade and talked to them a short time, gave 
them Sabbath-school i)apers, and secured a promise that they would return 
on the following Sabbatli. The next Sabbath there were present seven boys 
and three girls. With this little company they talked, sang, and prayed, 
and made an appointment to again meet them on the next Sabbath. The 
third day there was a still larger numlier. Encouraged by these exhibitions 
of Divine favor, they continued the meetings until the number m attend- 
ance reached from two to three hundred. These, however, were not all 
children, as men and women also attended as the exercises increased in 
interest. When cold weather came on it was proposed to discontinue the 
meetings, to which the scholars objected. They then went to the basement 
of Mr. Maier's house, now Judge Stallo's, Avhere the meetings were con- 
tinued during the cold season. From these exercises grew the present Bap- 
tist organization. The same persons who had engaged in the school became 
the prime movers in the new chuicli. Dr. Crawley, then President of the 
Mount Auburn Young Ladies Institute, consented to preach to the congre- 
gation, which met regularly in Mr. Miller's house. In 1861 they erected 
the present chm-ch edifice, situated on the west side of Auburn, north of 
Mason street. It is a frame structure forty by sixty feet, with capacity to 
seat three hundred persons. The room Is open to the rafters, has neat pews 
covered with crimson damask, is neatly carpeted, and contains a good pipe 
organ. They also have a roomy basement, with a comfortable chapel. There 
are at present over one hundred communicants. The pastor of the cliuix-h 
is the Rev. Charles E. Smith, who came to the congregation from Rhode 
Island, in June, 1868. The Sabbath-school, under the supermtendence of 



116 SiybhiiThs of CzTiQiixncbti. 

William B. French, now numbers two hundred and thirty-nine scholars, and 
meets at three o'clock in the afternoon. 

The Presbjiierian Church of J\Iount Auburn, though now quite prosper- 
ous and strong, is of recent organization. For several years the desirableness 
of a chvirch had been pressing itself upon the members of the several 
brandies of the Presbyterian persuasion residing in this locality. Early in 
March, 1867, a Wednesday evening meeting was commenced in the chapel 
of the Cincinnati Orphan Asylum, which was courteously offered for the 
purpose. In tlie same year it was determined to erect a house of worsliip, 
and subscriptions were secured to carry out this design. A lot, two hundred 
and twenty-six feet front, was purchased on the south side of Auburn 
street, for five thousand six hundred and sixty-nine dollars and fifty cents, 
and a plan designed for the new edifice, by J. W. McLaughlin, was 
adopted. The work was soon begun, and on the 3d day of January, 1869, 
the house was formally dedicated, having cost, with lot included, about 
thirty-two thousand doUars. 

The edifice is frame, eighty feet in length, with a width ranging from 
forty-five to sixty-two feet. In the north-west corner a symmetrical tower 
rises one hundred and twenty-eight feet from the pavement. Through this, 
as well as through the porch on the north-east corner, the edifice is entered. 

The main floor is six feet above the pavement, one-half of the altitude 
being made by steps outside, and the remainder after enter entering the 
vestibule. Between the tower and porch the area is left in open communi- 
cation with the main room, and is used as a reserve space, to be filled with 
chairs on extraordinary occasions. The main audience room is twenty- 
eight feet to the ceiling, and has three double circular-topped wuidows on 
either side. The pews are poplar, with black walnut tops and arms, and 
upholstered with crimson reps. The room is wainscotted with oak to the 
window-sills. The pulpit consists of a neat walnut desk, located in a roomy 
alcove, Avith handsome furniture to correspond. Five hundred persons can 
be comfortably accommodated. While the main edifice is approached imme- 
diately by ascending staircases, the lecture room is reached by descending 



J£o-uu7i.t jiubb-uuTTh cLTid CoTTyuzlle. 117 

stairways from the same landing. The latter room is fourteen feet in hight, 
and will accommodate two hundred persons. The infant school room, 
fifteen by twenty-eight feet, is separated from this by large doors, into the 
construction of wlaich glass largely enters. On this floor is a ladies' room, 
fifteen by twenty-two feet ; a pastor's study, fifteen by eighteen feet ; and a 
library, seven by eight feet. Below this is another floor, rendered possible 
by the configuration of the ground, in which the furnaces are placed. 
Here, also, is the janitor's room, and a kitchen to be used by the ladies of the 
church on occasions requiring it. In the front gable is a circular window, 
fifteen feet in diameter, and, immediately below it, narrow quadruple -win- 
dows, placed side by side, making a fine appearance from the street. The 
main audience room is lighted by five chandeliers, the fifth occupying the 
center of the building. 

Though there Avere representatives of the various Presbyterian bodies 
enlisted in the enterprise, when it came to the organization of the church, 
the utmost harmony prevailed, and, waiving all predilictions for particular 
schools, they cheerfully and voluntarily agreed to organize as an Old School 
Presbyterian Church. Accordingly, on the 13th day of October, 1868, 
before the edifice was completed, the church was organized at a meeting of 
the Presbytery of Cincinnati, held in the Orphan Asylum chapel, and 
O. N. Bush, F. C. RoAvlaud, W. IM. Richardson, Hugh Stewart, and Geo. 
W.- McAlpin, were ordained elders. The Rev. A. A. E. Taylor was called 
to the pastorate, from Georgetown, District of Columbia, and on the 6th day 
of June, 1869, preached his inaugural sermon. At tlie time of the organ- 
ization the church numbered sixty-nine members. It has since largely 
increased, so that the communicants now number one hundred and seventy 
two. The Sabbath-school, which was organized January 17, 1869, with one 
himdred and twenty scholars, now averages over three hundred. It is 
under the superintendence of O. N. Bush and L. R. Hull. 



118 SiyohziTDs of CzTZGznTzcbti. 



CINCINNATI ORPHAN ASYLUM. 

Forty years ago there existed in Cincinnati a female Bible society, which 
was a fit soil to germinate an institution of such noble purposes as the Cin- 
cinnati Orphan Asylum. About the year 1830 or 1831 there was placed 
in the hands of the society a sum of money for the relief of the poor. In 
visiting the needy, to make proper application of this fund, the number of 
orphan and destitute children with whom they were brought in contact sug- 
gested the necessity of a home for this unfortunate class. A meeting of 
the ladies was called, at which a resolution was adopted authorizing the 
appropriation of eight dollars that remained of the fund alluded to, for the 
relief of these orphans. This was the beginning of the Cincinnati Orphan 
Asylum. A house and lot were donated, and a charter procured from the 
legislature in 1833. The cholera occurring about this time, brought with 
it increased destitution and corresponding demands upon the society. This 
soon rendered the room inadequate, and induced them to remove to larger 
accommodations on Elm st]-eet. After remaining there thirty years, they 
disposed of the property for one hundred and fifty thousand dollars, and 
erected, in 1861, the present l^uilding on Mount Auljurn. The lot is large, 
and the building, a capacious three-story brick edifice, with basement and 
towers, is so located as to secure a superb view of the western parts of the 
city, the Ohio river, and the distant highlands. 

On the first floor are a well-furnished chapel, school rooms, parlor, oflice, 
and the apartments for the managers and matron. In the basement are 
dining rooms, kitchen, laundry, and the boys' bath-room. On the second 
floor are sleeping apartments and bath room for girls. The third story is 
devoted to sleeping rooms. The halls are wide and airy, and the rooms 
generally have high ceilings, good ventilation, whitewashed walls, and are 
in every respect admirably adapted to and arranged for the jiurpose for 
which they are used. Each child has its number, which is impressed upon 
its clothing ; and in the bath rooms there is a pin for each, upon which the 



JVEo-LLTit Jlubhub'rn cLnd, CoTTyuiVie. 119 

towel is hung, and immediately above a case containing a comb. Tlie 
large sleeping rooms are well ventilated, and each contains beds for from 
fifteen to twenty-five children. The larger number of the children have 
single beds. Those of sufficient age attend the public schools. On the Sab- 
bath they attend ser\nce at one of the churches, and in the afternoon, at 
three o'clock, service is regularly held in the asA'lum, at Avhich they have 
prayer, singing, reading of the Scriptures, and remarks by some one secured 
for the occasion. In these exercises the music is led by four of the girls, 
who have sufficient musical instruction to lead the congregation. A Sab- 
bath-school is held in the morning, the teachers of which are persons living 
in Mount Auburn. They have family worship morning and evening, and 
at the table each child, with clasped hands, is expected to unite audibly in 
invoking a blessing on the food. The children rise at five, and retire at 
from eight to nine o'clock, according to their age. The number of children 
ranges from ninety to ninety-five. The present matron is Miss N. B. Fris- 
toe, who acts under the direction of a board of managers consisting of 
twelve ladies. The cost of conducting the institution annually is from 
fourteen thousand to sixteen thousand dollars. Of this, the endowment 
fund, consisting of one hundred thousand dollars arising from the sale of 
their city property, besides several thousand dollars that have come from 
other sources, yields an annual revenue of nearly eight thousand dollars. 
This leaves about the same amount to be contributed by the benevolent 
people of Cincinnati and its surroundings. The Lord's blessing can not 
fail to rest on such an institution, nor can men conscientiously close their 
purses to those who gather up the neglected fiitherless and motherless chil- 
dren, ranging from early infancy to twelve years of age, surround them 
with all the comforts of home, and finally secure places fur them in good 
Christian families, where they may grow up ornament^ to society and 
blessino;.s to their race. 



120 S-Uyh-vbi^h s of CznczTLizcbti . 



GERMAN PROTESTANT ORPHAN ASYLUM. 

Among the best benevolent institutions of Cincinnati is the German 
Protestant Orphan Asyhim for the destitute children who have been 
deprived of parents and homes. It was projected by a German Protestant 
association, that, during the cholera in 1849, found a larger number of 
orphans than could be j)rovided for by the ordinary means. It seems a 
striking fact, that many of our most excellent institutions have started from 
the affliction of our race. These blessed oaks, under whose branches so 
many of the fatherless now find shelter and repose, were planted in the soil 
of riven and bleeding hearts, and watered by the tears of the bereaved. 
The founders soon thereafter put up a four-story brick building on High- 
land avenue, to which large and valuable additions were made in 1868, at a 
cost of thirty thousand dollars, Avhich so increased the capacity as to make 
it equal to the accommodation of two hundred children. The institution is 
under the superintendence of ]Mrs. INIary Pfafflin, the widow of the Rev. 
G. F. Pfafflin, with whom she was associated in its management fourteen 
years prior to his death, which occurred July 4, 1869. Under able and 
carefid management, the asylum has enjoyed most encouraging prosperity. 
It now has about fifty boys and forty-five girls. The children are well- 
dressed, contented, and happy. They call the matron " mother," and seem 
to have no less enjoyment than if they were at their real homes. These 
children are of aU ages, ranging from infancy to eighteen years. Children 
of members of the association are admitted though they may have lost but 
one parent ; in other cases, only those who are bereaved of both parents. 

The children are sent to the pubhc schools, and we understand that it is 
not an unfrequent occurrence for them to carry ofl^ honorable j^rizes. Those 
of sufficient age attend church in the morning in the city. In the after- 
noon Sabbath-school is held, at which students of Lane Seminary are gen- 
erally in attendance to render such service as may be desirable. Morning 
and evening the children assemble for worship. In the summer they rise at 



JA^oiLixt jIuJduuti'z dixd CoTTyuzlLe. 121 

five o'clock — during the winter an hour later — and are compelled to retire' 
at an early hour. The house is plainly though comfortably furnished. 
The sleeping apartments are large and airy. Each child is supplied with a 
single bed, plenty of clothing, and, indeed, with whatever is necessary to 
his comfort and actual good. 

At such times as are deemed proper, the children are placed in famihes, 
who obligate themselves to retain them until they arrive at their majority, 
when the boys are to be paid two hundred dollars, and the girls one hun- 
dred dollars, in cash. Co-operating with the institution is the Ladies' 
Protestant Orphan Association, that furnishes all the clothing ibr the chil- 
dren. Twice during the year, in May and October, a festival is held, at 
Avhich Hberal sums are usually obtained. The President of the Board is 
Dawl Baker; Vice President, Jacob Schneider; Secretary, Christopher 
Krieger ; Treasurer, Herman Ficke. 



WIDOWS HOME. 

Among the benevolent institutions in this locality is the Widows' Home. 
The charter was granted in 1851, the corporators being Robert Buchanan, 
Edward D. Mansfield, David B. Lawler, Lucius Brigham, Rufus King, 
Wesley Smead, John Stille, and others. Among those who contributed 
largely to the estabhshment of the home was Wesley Smead, Esq. The 
object of the institution is to provide a home for aged and indigent 
females, who can give satisfactory testimonials of g(jod conduct and respect- 
able character. In general, j)ersons under sixty years of age are not 
admitted, though this is not an invariable rule. 

The fiscal affairs of the home are under the control of a board of trustees 
of three gentlemen, and the immediate management of all matters pertain- 
ing to the household is reposed in a board of managers, consisting of twenty 
ladies. The present matron is INIrs. Brasher, and the num])er of persons in 
the home, forty-one. 

The house is on the west side of Highland avenue, immediately opposite 



122 SzihiyLi-'/Ds of Czncin-ncLtz. 

the German Protestant Orphan Asylum. It consists of a large main three- 
story brick edifice, fii.cing the south, with wings of two stories on both the east 
and west, and a basement throughout the entire building. The house is 
airy, with good halls, comfortable, well-furnished rooms, a parlor for the 
reception of guests, and a room set apart for religious worship and other 
meetings. The location is an eligible one, and the surroundings desirable 
and pleasant. The institution has an endowment fund, but this only j^ar- 
tiallv defrays the current expenses. The benevolence of the community 
has to supply the remainder. 

The members of the family are compelled to do no more work than is 
desirable. Those who are able are expected to make their own beds and 
sweep their rooms each morning ; to sew, knit, assist in dome -tic duties, and 
render all the service they can for the benefit of the institution and for those 
w'ho are more helpless than themselves. All that is necessary for their com- 
fortable support is provided fiom the funds of the society, and no person is 
allowed, under any circumstances, to leave the institution for assistance or 
work. The hea\aer domestic duties are performed by the servants, and it 
only remains for those at the Home to do such things as are entirely com- 
patible with their ability and pleasure. The larger number are Christians. 
Religious exercises are supplied hy the Rev, Joseph Emery, City Mission- 
ary, who preaches on alternate Wednesday afternoons. Services are also 
held by other ministers, and by stutlents of Lane Seminary, who are pres- 
ent regularly on Sabbath afternoons, save during the vacations in that 
institution. The ladies of tl.e Home greatly enjoy these religious exercises, 
and the larger number welcome with delight those who come to them with 
Christian messages. In general, they are contented and happy, and regard 
with gratitude the labors of the friends who so Iiountifully provide for them. 
Many are quite aged ; not a few have found life beset with heavy trials, and 
can recall many a contest with poverty and misfortune, which would, per- 
haps, be as interesting as the contest of our gallant soldiers who have, from 
disability, found a home in our national asylums. But with them the 
lieavv labor is done ; with the best evidence that the Lord has provided for 



J^ouunt Jlubhuu-rn and OoTTyville. 123 

tliem beyond any contingency, with the rough, thorny path of life behind, 
and the dawn already as.^uring them of the near api^roach, for them, of 
eternal day, the greater number but await the summons to a still better 
Home. 

MOUNT AUBURN YOUNG LADIES' INSTITUE. 

In the year 185(3, eight gentlemen of Mount Auburn — John Eevan, 
George F. Davis, J. H. White, Henry :Miller, R. A. Holden, John H. 
Ewiiig, G. A. Taylor, and H. Thane Miller — recognizing tlic peculiar fit- 
ness of this locality for a school, founded the Mount Auburn Younir 
Ladies' Institute. In that year and the one following, buildings were 
erected on the west side of Auburn street, to which desirable and coiumo- 
dious additions have since l)een made. The main edifice is one bundled 
and fifty-five feet in length by forty -five in width, and is four stories in 
bight. The sleeping rooms are large and well ventilated ; the study and 
recitation rooms are light and agreeable, and the cooking and dining ajjart- 
ments are arranged to promote cleanliness and comfort. Tlie location is a 
most desirable one, commanding a sj)lendid view of the western jjart of the 
city, the Ohio river, and the distant highlands of both Kentucky and Ohio. 
The institution began under fiivorable auspices, the founders having the 
good fortune to secure at once an accomplished educator to accept the presi- 
dency of t!ie school. This was the Rev. E. A. ("rawlev, D.D., at tliat 
time President of the Acadia College, Nova Scotia, who happened to be in 
Cincinnati on business, and was induced to accept the responsibility of 
inaugurating tiie work. Dr. ( -rawley continued in tliis place four years, 
and was succeeded by H. Thane Miller, who occupied this responsible ])osi- 
tion with ability and singular acceptance until the close of the collegiate 
year of 1867-8, embracing a term of eight years. After Mr. Miller's 
resignation, the Rev. A. J. Rowland, who had been pastor of the ]\Iount 
Auburn Baptist Church about two years, was elected to fill tlie vacmicy, 
and has since occupied that position. 

The catalogue of last year exhibits the names of about one hundred and 



124 Szih-ubThs of Cii-zGinTLCbti . 



fifty students. During the fourteen years of its existence this school has 
enjoyed uninterrupted success. Large numbers of young ladies from the 
best families of the country have been educated and sent forth on the great 
mission of life. The position it has attained is largely attributable to the 
excellence of the teachers who have been employed. Among them are the 
lamented H. T. Crawley ; Prof. Eli T. Tappin, now of Oliio University ; 
Prof Joseph M, Locke, late Principal of the Western Military Institute, at 
Dayton; Nelson Sayler, Esq., and H. P. Boyden, Esq., of Cincinnati. 
Mrs. L. Burpe, Lady Principal of the institution from the founding of the 
school to the year 1868, contributed very largely to its success. She 
returned to her home in Nova Scotia, after her resignation, carrying with 
her the affectionate regard of a host of school and other friends. This 
institution has accommodations for one hundred boarders and one hun- 
dred and fifty day scholars. The grounds have recently been very much 
improved and beautified by the construction of walks, grottoes, a miniature 
lake, and by increased shrubbery and flowers. 

PUBLIC SCHOOL. 

The public school of Mount Auburn is worthy of commendation. The 
edifice is a three-story brick, situated on the north side of Southern avenue. 
The whole number of scholars enrolled last year was three hundred and 
seventeen ; average daily attendance, one hundred and seventy-four. The 
board organized, in 1868, an intermediate department in the same building, 
which went into operation in September of that year. The school, under 
the superintendence of John J. Mar\an, has been ably managed, and has 
enjoyed a career of much prosperity. 

HOPKINS PARK. 

A beautiful feature of oNIouut Auburn is the charming little spot at the 
foot of Auburn street, called Hopkins Park. This is bounded on the 
north by Saunders street, and on the east and west, respectively, by Bigelow 



JVEoijunt JhjJDUb'rrh cund CoTTyuille. 125 

and South Auburn streets. The land, embracing about one acre, was 
donated to the city of Cincinnati early in 1866, by L. C. Hopkins, on con- 
dition that it should be held for a park for the use of the people ; that it 
should forever be kept free from buildings, and, within two years from the 
conveyance, should be tastefully laid out and planted with durable trees and 
shrubbery, and, besides, be inclosed with a substantial and neat iron rail 
fence. These conditions have been complied with, and arrangements are 
making to still further improve and embellish the grounds by the erection 
of a fountain, and the addition of shrubbery and flowers. 



CITY LOT. 

Cities are seldom provident. The larger number are continually crying 
retrenchment, and yet conduct business in a manner to cost, eventually, the 
most money. If lands are to be procured, it is delayed until the necessity 
is actually upon them, and then they enter the market to purchase at greatly 
enhanced prices. Cincinnati, however, has not invariably followed this rule. 
Years ago the city purchased ten acres of William Burnet, for three thou- 
sand dollars. This lot is on the north side of Auburn avenue, and is now 
valuable. Various projects have been brought forward, from time to time, 
looking to a disposition of this property ; but thus far, fortunately, it has 
been without success. The time is coming when this will be desirable for 
either water or park pui'poses, or both ; and it is h(jped it will be retained 
to be used when that time shall arrive. That this part of the city is des- 
tined to fill up very rapidly, can not now be doubted. Mount Auburn, 
with the country embraced in Avhat is now Corrj^'ille, must, wdthin a com- 
paratively few years, teem with a population that will demand a park in 
this locality. The city Avould, consequently, sell this only to buy it back 
in the course of another decade, at a largely-increased price, or be compelled 
to pay dearly for some other tract no more desirable. 



126 S'bohziT^hs of CznxcinixcLti . 



STREET RAILWAY. 

That which has contributed much to the important advance in real prop- 
erty in Mount Auburn, and which, too, Avill continue to favorably influence 
emigration in this direction, is the street railway, which has been in opera- 
tion since the year 1867. The agitation of this question was begun about 
eight years ago. Among those who early identified themselves Avith the 
project were Chas. C. Realdrt, Judge Alphonso Taft, A. D. Bullock, 
Joseph Kinsey, and Harry R. Smith. As usual in all enterprises, however 
good, it took years of pounding to get the people ready for the work. 
Opposition showed itself in many quartei-s, and it was not until four years 
had been expended in this kind of labor that the right of way was 
procured, and obstructions so far removed as to permit tlie road to be 
built. To Judge Taft's indefiitigable and hojieful labor this result is largely 
due. 

The road runs from ]Main, up Liberty street to Price, which it follows 
in a northerly direction until reaching Ringgold street, where it turns 
sharply to the west. At the intersection of Josephine street it again bears 
to the north until reaching Saunders, which communicates directly with 
Auburn street, at the head of Sycamore. It continues thence along 
Auburn street to its intersection with Vine street, in the southern part of 
Corryville — a distance from Saunders street of nearly one mile. The 
maximum grade of the road is about ten feet to the hundred feet, which 
occurs on Liberty street. Here they are compelled to use an extra horse 
until reaching the nnnmit. After attaining Price street it is less serious, 
though still sharp up-hill work. The construction of this road has dem- 
on -;tra ted the practicability of street railways over all the surrounding hills; 
for there will be no route, judiciously located, that can meet with more 
obstacles in the shape of grade. 



JVLouuTbt JhjubuuTTh o^izd CoTTyvzlle. 127 



PRICES. 

Prices of unimproved pro})erty in INlount xVuburn are rajjidly approach- 
ing those of similar property below. Its proximity to the city, accessibility 
by the street railway, and the disposition of many to get no farther away 
from the business part of the city than is absolutely necessary to secure 
comfort and health, have contributed to this result. The prices of jiroperty 
during the past two years have astonished many persons ; but there seems 
no reason why tliere should be much difference between tiie prices here and 
that of property in the plain IjoIdw the same distance from the business dis- 
trict of the city. 

That which perhaps indicates as near the actual value of eligible lots as 
any thing we could mention, is the sale of the well-known JMcGregor estate, 
in May of 18G8. This was on Aubuin street, north of McGregor avenue, 
A lot on the corner, one hundred and twenty-tlu-ee feet front and two hun- 
dred in depth, sold to Briggs Swift f )r two Inuidred and twenty dollars per 
foot front. The next lot on the north, one hundred feet front, sold to Wil- 
liam Disney for two hundred dollars, and was resold at the rate of two hun- 
dred and twenty dollars. A lot adjoining on the north, two hundred feet, 
was sold to A. H. Hinkle, for two hundred and five dollars per foot. On 
McGregor avenue, immediately in the rear of these, a lot one hundi'ed feet 
wide was sold to John Whetstone for one hundred and fifty dollars per foot. 
On the west side of Auburn street, north of the ^lethodist Church, a lot 
sixty feet by one hundred and eighty-five feet sold, in 1867, at one hun- 
dred and sixty-five dollars per foot. During the summer, George K. 
Shoenberger sold a lot, nearly opposite the McGregor subdivision, fi)r two- 
hundred and fifty dollars per foot. 

These prices are greatly in excess of previous sales. At the time, the 
JNIcGregor sales created consideral)le commotion among dealers in real 
estate, and not a few 2)redicted that the same property, in five years, would 
be less than then. How fiir these predictions will in-oxc true, time will 



128 SijuhTLJ^h s of CzTiGznncLti. 



alone determine; but it may be proper to remark that in the general 
advance in real property in large, prosperous cities, the same predictions 
have been made, from time to time, only to exliibit the little knowledge 
men have of the expansive nature of values in the business centers of this 
country. Until these sales, the highest price paid for unimproved property 
on the hill was one hundred and ten dollars per foot. 



ADVANTAGES. 

]Mount Auburn is somewhat difficult of access, but otherwise it is admir- 
ably situated. It possesses the advantage of being so near Cincinnati as to 
be within walking distance, and, in addition, is in immediate connection 
with the heart of the city by street railway. The objection urged by some 
persons to the country is, that they are compelled to keep a horse and car- 
riage in order to reach then' places of business. Those living in Mount 
Auburn need not have their own establishment, as the omnibus and rail 
facilities are now so complete that they can go and return at any hour. 
While they have the convenience of the city, neither comfort nor health is 
compromised. The air is as pure on Mount Auburn, in general, as it is 
miles away. The altitude — four hundred and sixty feet at one point above 
low-water mark — secures a pure atmosphere, while it affords in all direc- 
tions beautiful landscapes. Some of the views and glimpses of the city and 
river from these points are of the rarest beauty. The views of the former 
at night, from the hights overlooking it, are almost like fairy spectacles. 

Another present advantage that this location has, is, that it is supplied 
with both gas and water. Then, to its healthfulness it is hardly necessary 
to allude. Its elevated pf)sition and freedom from malarijil influences ren- 
der it secure against much that affects the population in the lower lands. 
When these desirable features are combined with an excellent popidation, 
good churches and schools, we find a rare combination of attractions that 
may help us to discover why property is now commanding such prices in 
that neighborhood. 



Jdouunt JluJD-ubTTb cund OoTTyville. 129 



f 



ORRYVILLE 



Corryville is oue of those 2>l'^ces that, in j^opular u:^age, has indefinite 
boundaries. Never having been incorporated for general purposes, the 
name has ordinarily applied only to that part of section fourteen which was 
subdivided by the Corry heirs in the year 1843, and named Corry^'ille. 
For road purj^oses it embraced, until its recent annexation to the city as the 
Twenty-third ward, all of section fourteen, and such parts of section fifteen 
as were east of the Carthage road, the remainder of the latter section being 
within the corporate limits of Clifton. The former section extends as far 
east as Burnet avenue, and, on the south, to McMUlan street. It wiU be 
observed that many improvements recognized as being within INIount 
Auburn, including the German Orphan Asylum and Widows' Home, are 
Avithin what was formerly known as the Corry\'ille road district. These 
imj^rovements have been considered under the head of ]Mount Anbm-n, and 
it is here only necessary to speak more particiUarly of that part of Corry- 
ville wliich Avas comprised in the subdivision of the Cony heirs, to which 
allusion has been made. 

Section fourteen was originally owned by Jacob Burnet and WUliani 
jMc^NIillan. The latter had three hundi'ed and twenty acres in the middle 
of the section, extending quite through it from north to south, while ]Mr. 
Burnet owned a quarter section on each side. After the death of ]Mr. 
]Mc^Iillan, Wilham Cony, the first INIayor of Cincinnati, purchased from 
the devisees all of the IMcJMillan tract save four acres in the southern 
part and eighty across the northern border, which still remained in the pos- 
session of members of the ^Ic^Iillan family. The former descended to the 



130 SzohioThs of G-hnGinnobti . 

children of Mr. Corry ; and, in 1843, William ]M., Thomas F., Mary A., 
Eleanor, Agnes, James A., and Alice Corry, subdivided these lands and 
laid out the village of CorryviUe. 

The principal street is Washington avenue, formed by the junction of 
Vine street extended and Auburn street. This is ninety feet wide, and is 
macadamized and paved to Hammond street, which is the connecting link 
between it and the C'arthage road. It is expected that this street will be 
extended northwardly at an early period. On it there are a larger number 
of improvements than on any other within the village ; and, inasmuch as 
it is the route to Clifton, and one of the outlets of the city, it is a great 
thoroughfare. 

Calhoun street, the principal one running east and \vest, connects Vine 
street extended and Clifton avenue. This street is sixty feet in width, is 
macadamized, guttered, and curbed. There are upon it a number of good 
dwellings, with j)romise of additional impro^'ements. 

Jefferson avenue, which runs parallel with Washington, is the same width 
of Calhoun. It extends from the latter to the Carthage road, and is 
paved, macadamized, and curbed. 

Hammond street runs from Washington avenue to McLean street, in 
Burnet's and Reeder's subdivisions. 

Highland avenue, upon which the German Orphan Asylum is located, 
Oak street, which has recently had the addition of several good residences, 
and Burnet avenue, which separates CorryviUe from Avondale, and is the 
eastern boundary of Mr. ShiUito's premises, are all in the eastern jDart of 
the section, and have been alluded to somewhat under the head of Mount 
Auburn. They are in general well macadamized ; and such as have not 
been completed are now being rapidly improved. There are still other 
streets of less importance, some of which scarcely exist save in name, but 
which will be improved from time to time, as occasion requires. 

Mount Auburn being adjacent, the Protestant churches of that place are 
entirely convenient to the ^^eople of CorryviUe. The Catholics have 
erected a church on Calhoun street, which is at present used for the double 



JVLoiunt jiiLh-LL-rn cund C'oT-ryville. 131 



purpose of religious: worsliip and .-school. About fifty i?cholars are in daily 
attendance at the latter. 

Tlie public .school is located on the west side of Washington street, 
between Boone and Hammond streets. The building is a large two-story 
brick edifice, erected about seventeen years ago, but greatly improved in the 
year 1866. The nuni])er of scholars in average daily attendance last year 
was about three hundred. The school, which is in a very prosperous con- 
dition, is in charge of Henry Doerler, who lias been superintendent since 
1869. 

Prices of real estate in this locality can be indicated no better, perhaps, 
than by alluding to a transaction of Miles Greenwood, tiie conclu-ion of 
■which is yet fresh in the public mind. Twenty-six years ago, Mv. Green- 
wood purchased, on the west side of the Carthage road, south of the pres- 
ent tollgate, twenty-two acres of land, for which he paid four tliousand dol- 
lars. Two years ago this tract was subdivided, and sold in comparatively 
small lots at rates varying from ten to something over fifty dollars per front 
foot, the aggregate sales amounting to ninety-three thousand dollars. 

The place, though well built up on Washington street, is yet sparsely 
settled elsewhere. Tliere are, however, evidences of inij)r()venient in many 
places. At the junction of Eden avenue and Hammond street, the only 
steam engine on the hill, for miles around, has been erected by Hon. Wm. 
M. Corry, to propel the Bovey brick machine, which he has just introduced 
in that locality, and which has gone into operation with promise of becom- 
ing efficient and useful. Last year a largo iion tanlc was erected here by 
the Cincinnati Water Works, to supply the liighlands with water. ]S"ow 
that Corryville has been annexed to the city, it cm not be doubted that in a 
comparatively short time water will be sujiplied to the entire ward. The 
Gas Company, too, have anticipated the wants of the future population, 
and already have their pipes along Highland avenue as fiir out as Oak 
street. The city, indeed, is steadily pressing in that direction. New build- 
ings and business houses are springing up, and the time is not distant, when, 
witli a liberal policy on the part of land owners, this will become a populous 



132 BuyhiLTh s of CinGinnGbti . 

district. The village is generally settled by persons of moderate means, 
who have purchased small lots and erected such dwellings as their ability 
would allow. The German element is a very strong one, and the faces of 
this class of our citizens are still strongly set in that direction. Accessible 
by both street railway and omnibus at aU hours of the day, with moderate 
prices and delightful locations, it must soon become a suburb of Avhose con- 
sequence the reader will not have to be informed. 



W?^J,^'VT!^Jt^,?. 




PRECEDING chapter was devoted to East Walnut Hills, and in 
a4 the one immediately to follow this, the village of Woodburn will 

¥ ^ receive special attention. The chapter upon which the reader has 
just entered will relate to Walnut Hills, the parent of the other two 
villages. 

In the year 1791, the Rev. James Kemj^er, who had recently been 
licensed to preach, emigrated to Ohio, stopping for a limited period at what 
is now Cincinnati, and finally locating on lands that subsequenty became 
the site of the village of Walnut Hills. He brought with him a consider- 
able family of children, a part of them grown sons, and took possession of 
these elevated lands. It was no hohday work ; for, among the first duties 
he entered upon was to build, with the assistance of his sons, a block house, 
to protect his family from the Indians. Persons passing along Kemper 
lane, if they will notice a lot on the east side, where the street has been 
very considerably cut down, wiU observe the spot where Walnut Hills began 
its life. Here was the cradle of the village that subsequently spread over 
sufficient area to make three distinct organizations. The old house that 
supplanted the early habitation of the family yet stands on the lot upon 
wliicli the block house Avas erected. 

At this period few tliought that the time would so soon come when the 
village would become a refuge from the heat and dust of a city whose popu- 



134 SzohziJ^hs of CzTlGZTZlZCLii. 

lation would be numbered by hundreds of thousands. From the walnut 
trees that abounded, the locality became known as Walnut Hills, and now 
the name has become so completely identified with all that region that it 
will be many years before people can forget that even its subdivisions have 
any other appellation. In 1818, the first church edifice was erected. It 
was the " First Presbyterian Church" of that place, and over it Mr. Kem- 
per was pastor, with po-^sibly a brief interruption, until his death, in 
August, 1834. 



LANE THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY. 

Eleven years after the organization of tliis church, an event occurred 
Avhich gave Walnut Hills a prominence it otherwise would not have enjoyed, 
and which really became an epoch in its history. In Januray, 1829, a tract 
of sixty acres of land was donated by members of the Kemper fiimily for 
the establishment of a theological seminary, and a charter was procured, 
early in the sam3 year, from the legislature of Oliio, conferring upon the 
institution all the prerogatives of a college or university, as well as those of 
a theological seminary. The first considerable donation in nione}" was made 
by jMr. Ebenczer Lane, a Xev,' Orleans merchant, in 1828, in con.-ideration 
of which the institution received the name of Lane Seminary. 

In addition to the sixty acres alluded to as having been donated to the 
institution, fifty acres additional were leased of Elnathan Kemper and wife, 
in 1832, on a nominal ground rent of five hundred dollars per annum. 
Buildings, consisting of a chapel, dormitory, and boarding hall, were 
erected, at a cost of nearly fifty thousand dolhirs, and a library was pro- 
cured at an expense of about ten thousand dollars. In the year 1830, Dr. 
Lyman Beecher was called from Boston to this new institution, and was 
inducted into office as Professor of Systematic Theology on the 2()tli of 
December, 1832. Rev. Thomas J. Biggs, D.D., who had been elected in 
1831, entered upon his duties as Professor of Ecclesiastical History and 
Church Polity on the same day. In the year 1832, Rev. Calvin E. Stowe, 



'^CblTLlMt lizils. 135 



D.D., was elected to the chair of Biblical Literature, and in July of the 
following year entered upon liis duties in tlmt department. The Rev. Bax- 
ter Dickinson, D.D., in 1885, was installed Professor of Sacred Rhetoric 
and Pastoral Theology, and continued in that place until the year 1839, 
-when Dr. Biggs and he resigned, on account of the pecuniary embarrass- 
ments of the institution. In the year 1840, the jjlace made vacant by the 
resignation of Dr. Dickinson was filled by the Rev. D. Howe Allen, D.D., 
who was called from jSIarietta College. 

Dr. Beecher and Prof. 8towe resigned in 1850, and Dr. Allen was 
transferred to the cliair of Systematic Theology in the succeeding year. 
The Rev. J. B. Condit, D.D., was elected in 1851 to fill the place made 
vacant by Dr. Allen's change, and Prof. George E. Day elected to the 
chair vacated by Prof. Stowe. In 1855, the Rev. Henry Smith, D.D., 
formerly President of Marietta College, succeeded Dr. Condit, who was con- 
strained by ill health to resign liis position. Dr. Smitli, to whom iusti'uc- 
tion in church history had also been assigned, offered his resignation in 
1862, and the Rev. Llewelyn J. Evans was called to the department of 
Church History. Dr. Smith, four years after this resignation, was elected 
to the cliair of Sacred Rhetoric, and the Rev. Elisha Ballantiue was elected 
to the place made vacant by Prof. Day, who had just resigned. Dr. Allen, 
in 1867, on account of declining health, was compelled to seek release fVom 
active service, and was made Professor Emeritus. In the same year, the 
Rev. Henry A. Nelson, D.D., of St. Louis, wa^ elected to the place made 
vacant liy Dr. Allan's change, and Prof Evans bec.ime the successor of 
Dr. Ballantine, wiio had also resigned. The Rev. E. D. I\Iorris, D.D., of 
Columbus, Ohio, was in the same year, 1867, elected to the chair of Eccle- 
siastic.d History and Clmvcli Polity, and, with Dr. Nelson, was formallv 
inducted into office IMay 18, \^{S><. Since tlien no changes h.ave taken 
plac:* in the faculty. In 1827 a literary department was opened and con- 
tinued about five years. The manu d-hib ir system was also attempted, but 
was found to be too expensive. 

Theological instruction was regularly connuenced in December, 1882, and 



136 SiohzoThs of Ci-n.GiizTzciti. 

has continued uninterruptedly since that time, now over thirty-seven years. 
The first faculty consisted of men whose names will long be gratefully 
remembered by the friends of the institution and the people of the West. 

Through various vicissitudes of fortune, the change of professors, and 
the embarrassment of hard times, the Seminary has proceeded in its work 
of preparing young men for the ministry. The records of the New School 
Presbyterian Church for 1867 show^ that in that year one hundred and 
eighty, or about one in ten of the ministers then in that connection, had 
been educated wholly or in part at this institution. These have been scat- 
tered over the earth, and are an important division of the great army of 
the Cross. A part have been claimed by foreign lands. Representatives 
are found in New England and the Middle States, but the greater number 
are laboring in the missionary fields of the West. In Ohio, in 1867, there 
were fifty-five ; in Indiana, thirty-eight ; in Illinois, twenty-four ; and in 
Michigan, fifteen. 

The present buildings of the seminary are located on a spacious lot, 
bounded by Chapel and Kemper streets on the north and south, respect- 
ively, and by Maple street on the east, and the Montgomery turnpike on 
the west. The buildings front the turnpike, and are well removed fi-om the 
street. They consist of the chapel in the center, a brick edifice of impos- 
ing appearance, with a good audience room and lecture rooms. To the 
south is the dormitory, a brick building of four stories. It is a tastefid 
structure, with Mansard roof, and ample verandas both in front and rear, 
and is admirably adopted to school pui-poses. The library edifice, recently 
erected through the liberality of Preserved Smith, Esq., of Dayton, Ohio, 
is classic in its proportions and complete in its internal arrangement. It 
occupies a position in front and to the right of the chapel, and is an orna- 
ment to the grounds as well as a credit to the institution. This building 
contains on its shelves and within its alcoves about thirteen thousand vol- 
umes — one of the best libraries of its kind in the United States. This 
collection embraces some of the rarest and most valuable theological works 
in existence. On the south of the college grounds are two residences, owned 



'cblix-ubt Hi Lis. 1Z\ 



by the Semiiiaiy and occupied by two of the professors of the institution. 
In the rear of the main buildings is the boarding hall, a two-story frame 
edifice, erected in 1868, tasteful in its appearance and complete in its 
appointments. 

The endowment fund, though of great impurttince, is by no means equal 
to the wants of the institution. The revenue from leases is about ten thou- 
sand dollars per annum, and the income from other investments but little 
in excess of three thousand dollars. A library fund exists, amountino- to 
about four thousand dollars. Now that a united church, with zeal stimu- 
lated by the recent reunion and by increased opportunities of doing good, 
has become interested in the school, it is reasonable to expect that this 
institution, which has matured through severe struggles and pecuniary trials, 
will early be placed in a condition of complete independence. 

The Seminary campus consists of about ten acres. The lands are beauti- 
ful naturally, containing shade trees of many years' growth, and, without 
display, presenting an appearance of unusual repose. Plans are matifrino- 
for the improvement of these grounds, which will make them as inviting as 
a park. It would be well if no time were lost in giving tlais beautifid sub- 
urb such an acquisition. 

This institution, thus begun and continued tlirough the generation that 
has folloAved, became the pivot about which the village revolved It wa.< 
not the foimdation of the moral tone and excellent chai'acter of the place, 
for this had been secured by the sterling religious men who were the carl\- 
inhabitants of this locality, and who inaugurated the school. The Seminar\- 
was the result, rather, of their Christian fidelity and enterprise ; and liav- 
ing been called into existence, early became so intimately connected Avith 
the name of Walnut Hills, that they were soon almost convertible terms. 

Around this institution has gathered the village which, though recentlv 
remote, is now even more than a suburb of Cincimiati. Gradually the city 
has been working its way up the Deercreek valley and the ravine pursued 
l)y Kemper lane, making one conquest after another, until Walnut Hills is 
no longer a thickly-settled rural district, such as Woodburu and East Wal- 
10 



138 Siuh'bLThs of CzTLGiThnobtz . 

nut Hills. It is a part of the city, regularly laid out, with improved 
street? and sidewalks, and, in general, well built up. Lane Seminary is 
within its limits, but is considerably north of the center of population, 
which has been tending in the direction of the old parts of Cincinnati and 
the river. The principal streets are McMillan (Madisonville turnpike), 
running east and west, and the Montgomery turnpike, which, after having 
ascended the hill, passes slightly east of north through the \'illage. 

At the October election, in 1869, AYalnut Hills and Cincinnati voted on 
the question of annexing the former to the city, declaring in favor of the 
change by a large majority. Committees were subsequently appointed by 
the city council and the trustees of the road district to determine the terms 
of annexation. The conclusion of these committees was submitted to their 
respective bodies in the following jNIarch, and, being formally approved. 
Walnut Hills became a part of Cincinnati, arid was su1:)sequently erected 
into the Twenty-second Ward. 

Prior to the consummation of annexation. Walnut Hills proper consisted 
of five-eighths of section eight of Millcreek township, extending from the 
northern boundary of the city (then McMillan street) to Avondale and the 
north-west part of AV^oodburn, on the north, and from Woodburn on the 
east to Corryville on the west. It was at no time an incorporated village, 
save for road purposes. 

The business of Walnut Hills is confined almost exclusively to McMillan 
street and the Montgomery road. There are, in addition, on these streets, 
some very delightful homes, which will be :dluded to more particularly else- 
where. Beginning north of the Seminary three square •;, Spring street 
comes first, then Chestnut, Sycamore, and Chapel streets follow, success- 
ively, before reaching the Seminary grounds. The latter street, which 
bounds the Seminary on the north, is to be continued through the Elston 
lands to Woodburn avenue, thus opening a street between the northern 
jmrts of Walnut HilL-^ and Woodburn, midway between jNIcMillan street 
and Avondale. On the south of the Seminary, running parallel with 



'cblmut Hills. 139 



the other., is Kempor street, and inimediatelj south of tlio latter Locust 



Street. 



One bad tendency in individual suburbs is to make streets and other 
improvements without regard to similar enterprises in adjacent territorv 
The desirableness of more intimate connection between the various vill-,.e. 
and of thorough harmony between the public improvements of the diffei^nt 
places, IS not so apparent now as it will be after it shall be too late to adopt 
son.e general system for the whole territory. It is tins, among other con- 
siderations, that renders it highly desirable that these suburbs should at the 
earliest practicable period, become a part of Cincinnati. As showino- how 
the demand for channel, of more intimate intercourse is connected withlncor- 
poratiou with the city, it may ba remarked that Walnut HiUs recognized 
this as one of the objects of annexation, in that one of the terms on which 
tlle^.llage was annexed, was, that a street should early be opened from 
CorryviUe to Woodburn, to be, as near as practicable, a continuation 
ot Oak street, upon which, it will be remembered, Mr. Bullock's residence 
.s situated, in Mount Auburn. This work, it is understood, is to be com- 
menced at once. 

Though several streets running east and west, to which allusion has 
been made, are being opened west 6f the Montgomery pike, or the mat- 
ter of opening being considered, still, these substantiallv extend only to the 
Montgomery road, with the exception of McMillan and Locust street^ the 
former of which runs through the entire village. Intersecting at rioht 
angles these streets, with the exception of the Montgomery road, which "as 
has been said, bears north-eastwardly, are Beech, Maple, and Elm streets 
follownig each other in the order named, as we proceed from the Montoom- 
eiy road to the east. These streets embrace the body of the popul^ion 
M-ithin the limits of the former road district, though there are manv rer- 
sons now residing bc^tweon the Montgomery and the Lebanon roads 

The streets are generally .«ixty feet wide, and well macadamizc.l and -ut 
tered. Good stone sidewdks have been constructed, shade trees ph.nte 1 
and much attention given to the improvement of doorvard. and surround- 



140 S-bihuyTDs of CzizGinizciti. 

ings generally. There is an aj^pearance of peace and retirement about all 
this part of the place ; and, when it is remembered that the lots that have 
been carved out of the Seminary lands can never be used for other purposes 
than private residences, unless with the permission of the trustees of the 
Seminary, we can not but feel that the citizens are more than ordinarily safe 
against the encroachment of liquor shops and other curses that march with 
population. 

It is not practicable to enter into a detailed descrijDtion of all the 
improved property of Walnut Hills. Like Mount Auburn, the village is 
quite too populous to warrant such an attempt. The purposes of this chap- 
ter will be served by the historical allusions that have been made, and by the 
description of such private improvements as may be necessary to convey to 
the reader a just conception of the general beauty and desirableness of this 
locality, with, perhaps, such exceptions to the rule as may be found in some 
of the ancient landmarks, about which precious recollections gather, and in 
the contemplation of which the stranger and the resident alike may find 
pleasure. 

Perhaps, of the last-named class, no property is more distinguished than 
the residence of the Rev. Joseph G. Monfort, D.D., editor of the Herald and 
Presbyter. It is a neat two-story brick structure, with cajmcious porches in 
the rear and a roomy portico in front. It occupies a commanding position 
on the north-east corner of Montgomery road and Chestnut street, two 
squares north of the grounds of the Seminary. Without the semblance of 
ostentation, it speaks of the comfortable, hospitable home, which the palace 
sometimes may not so well declare. This was once the residence of Dr. 
Lyman Beecher. During many years it was the home of the man whose 
vigor of mind, whose strength of purpose, and whose far-seeing wisdom, 
the whole Presbyterian family have learned to venerate. Immediately 
south of the lot upon which the dwelling stands was then a piece of wood- 
land of probably twenty acres, with noble specimens of the sugar and the 
beech. Through this grove lay the Doctor's path to the Seminary. Tavo 
stiles then intervened. One ridge had to be crossed, and the whole locality. 



Jncblrhuut Hills. 141 



in its rustic simplicity, was quite unlike the place of to-day, occupied, as it 
is, by the advance guard of the city in its steady march to the north. 

Opposite this place, on the Montgomery road, is the residence of Mrs. 
Catharine Bates. The house was erected about thirty years ago, and at 
that time was one of the finest on the hill. The lot embraces about seven 
acres of land, distinguished for the beauty of its location. The premises 
are quite attractive, and it is eminently proper they should be the home of 
one of the oldest residents of this suburb. 

On the same side of the street, but nearer the Seminary, are some 
improvements of an excellent character, among them those of ^^ . L. 
Evans, who erected a residence here four years ago. The building is 
frame, two stories, with observatory and veranda. The general appearance, 
both externally and internally, is attractive and t:isteful. Mr. Evans has 
about three and a half acres of land, kept in fine condition, with well-con- 
structed carriage drives and beautiful surroundings. 

The same may be said of the residences of Geo. Fox and J. X. Kenney, 
l)oth of whom have pleasant and attractive homes on the same side of the 
street, but a short distance to the south. These Avere erected about four- 
teen years ago, but have been kept in such good repair that they are no less 
fresh than the more recently-constructed buildings. 

Still farther to the south, on the west side, is the residence of A. Simj)- 
kinson, a two-story brick edifice, erected about eight years ago. A veranda 
extends the full front of the first story, and the handsome location shows 
the tasteful building to the best advantage. 

Next is the old home of Elnathan Kemper, whose name is so intimately 
connected with that of Lane Seminary and AValnut Hills. The location is 
one of unusual beaut}-, and the well-preserved dwelling is surrounded by 
an abundance of shrulibery and shade trees. 

On the east side of jNIontgomery road, the second house south of the 
public school buUding, is the former home of Prof Stowe. Here he 
resided during a good i)art of his residence at Walnut Hills. At that time 
Harriet Beecher Stowe had not written "Uncle Tom's Cabm," and was 



142 S'Lu'b'bLi^hs of CzTZGinnOyti. 

unknown to fame ; but the qualities that afterward distinguished her were 
by no means hidden from her friends. Here, too, Catharine Beecher spent 
much of her time, and completed a trio such as is not frequently found in 
one house. The building is a two-story brick, with a one-story study 
attached to the south side, and has, for some time, been the residence of the 
Rev. B. P. Aydelott, D.D., of the Presbyterian church. 

McMillan street, east of the Montgomery road, is well built up for two or 
three squares. Shoj)s and stores are multiplying, and dwellings fresh from 
the hands of carpenters and painters are seen along its entii'e length. 
This is no less true of ^McMillan street, west of the Montgomery pike, three 
squares of which are thickly dotted ^vith dwellings, erected during the past 
three years. 

May street, which approaches McMillan street from the north three 
squares from the Montgomery road, is almost entirely new, and, besides, is 
well macadamized and paved. This is the last improved street to the west, 
tiiough there are scattered dwellings on unimjDroved streets until reaching 
the Lebanon road. 

Beech, Maple, and Elm streets, running north and south, and Locust, 
Kemper, Chapel, Sycamore, and Chestnut streets, intersecting them at right 
angles, all have along them good imj)rovements. Many of the dwelUngs are 
very tasteful and some expensive. Nearly all are plentifully supplied with 
shade trees and shrubber)-. Every where there is an air of comfort. The 
general ajDj^earance is that of a retired, educational town in the interior. Few 
unacquainted with the facts, amidst this quiet, would suspect that just 
below, the fourth city of the nation was conducting its commerce and filling 
the air with the rattle of its manufactories. 

Notwithstanding the boundaries that have been given were those of the 
late road district, they by no means embrace all of what is popularly known 
as Walnut Hills. McMillan street was the legal southern boundary ; but 
on Ijoth sides of this the place was, and is now, substantially the same vil- 
lage. The population on the north attend church on the south, and the 
children on the south are scholars in the public school on the north. South 



'cbln-ubt Hills. 143 



of McMillan street, it is the r-',\n\e summit, tlie streets in tlie main are 
identical, and the population similar. 

Maple street, which, it will l)e rememl)ered, runs nortli and south 
through that part of Walnut Hills lying nortli of iVIcMillan street, at its 
intersection with the latter becomes Park avenue. It was once called 
Hathaway lane, and yet appears with that name on the map ; but 3'(ni can 
not find any person now living on Hathaway lane. The other is so much 
more euphonious, and, withal, so smacks of the aristocratic, that its prede- 
cessor will soon be consigned to ol^livion. The street is, indeed, one of the 
most desirable upon the hill. 

On the east side of Park avenue is the two-story Ijrick residence lately 
owned by Joseph Whittaker, a very attractive property. It was sold in 
April of this year, at public auction, to Henry Lewis, for thirty-six thou- 
sand seven hundred dollars. 

South of this is the house of J. H. Rhodes, a two-story frame edifice, 
decidedly tasteful, purchased about three years ago. The residence of D. 
J. Williams, on the same side of the street, a two-story frame buildhig of 
irregular outline, is a pleasant home. 

The dwelling of Hugh Kemper, the last to the south on this side of the 
street, is one of the mo.-t tasteful in Walnut Hills. The lauds break 
rapidly in the drrection of the river, revealing from the veranda, which 
opens to the south, a succession of beautiful green slopes and cheerful 
knolls, as AveU as charming glimpses of the distant higlilands beyond the 
Ohio. Every thing about it is in good taste. Freedom from all deformities, 
pleasant outlooks, and hand.-ome approaches, make it attractive and 
desirable. 

On the west side of the avenue, on the corner of Windsor street, is the 
residence erected three years ago by Capt. James T. Fisher, and sold in 
July, 1869, to John Kilgour, for nineteen thousand nine hundred dollars. 
Immediately north, on the adjoining lot, is the twin to this house, owned l)y 
jMartin E. Fisher. They were both erected in 1867, at an expense of six- 
teen thousand dollars each. They are on lots sixty by two hundred and 



144 Szohu.Ths of CzTZOZTZTZdii. 

eighteen feet, and from commanding positions look immediately up the 
Ohio river. These eligible lots cost, in the spring of 1867, tifty dollars per 
foot. 

Immediately south of this proj)erty is an old landmark, the former residence 
of the Rev. F. A. Kemper, standing high above Windsor street, which has 
been cut down very considerably in perfecting the grade. Turning to the 
right and passing down Windsor street to Kemper lane, the pedestrian finds 
himself at the head of the wooden sidewalk, built on the latter street from 
the Seventeenth ward, or what was known in other days as Fulton. 

Windsor street is but one square in length. On the north-east corner of 
its intersection with Kemper lane, C'apt. C. F. Kendall, three years ago, 
put up an attracti^■e t^^"0-story frame dwelling, which cost eleven thousand 
dollars. The lot, sixty b}' two hundred and nine feet, cost at the rate of 
eighteen dollars per foot. 

Turning north on Kemper lane — for below this point there are few 
improvements — a well-paved street is seen, along which are many pleasant 
dwellings. Among these, in addition to the original Kemper home, is the 
former residence of Samuel D. Kemper, a brick edifice, with gable to the 
road, painted white, in its simplicity strangely contrasting with the adorn- 
ments that now cover many of our buildings. On this street, which is a 
continuation of Beech street, that approaches INIcMillan from the north, are 
located the Church of the Advent (Episcopal) and the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, which is but a short distance farther to the north. 

On McMillan street many of the buildings recently erected are exceed- 
ingly neat and comfortable, while not a few are large and expensive. The 
residence of Joseph W. Cotteral, on the south side, a short distance Avest of 
the point where the Madisonville turnpike turns to the north, is a large two- 
story edifice. It presents a fine apj)sarance from the street, and, with its 
handsome surroundings, is among the first to attract the attention of per- 
sons visiting this locality. 

Immediately adjoining him on the east, William Sumner, in 1869, 
finished a very beautiful stone-front residence. It is two stories, Avith ample 



^cblrhUbt Hills. 145 



verandas and elaborate details. The grounds are very handsome, not only 
presenting- a good appearance themselves, but in turn furnishing a charm- 
ing prospect in all directions. Few persons in our suburbs have a^ attract- 
ive places as Mr. Sumner. 

John Simpkinson's property is next on the east. These premises are ou 
the south-west corner of IMclNIillan street and Grandview avenue. The 
location is a splendid one, commanding ample views both to the north and 
in the direction of the Ohio. The builduig is a two-story brick, with Man- 
sard roof and tasteful verandas and portico. The premises are attractive 
and valuable. The stranger Avho visits this part of Walnut Hills will not 
go away without making inquiry concerning the possessor of such a delight- 
ful home. 

On the north side of McMillan street, opposite the places of jNIr. Simp- 
kinson and Mr. Sumner, Lewis French, three years ago, erected at consid- 
erable expense a two-story residence with tower. The lot and surroundings 
are attractive, and the edifice showy and capacious. 

Grand View avenue is a short street running southwardly from jMc^NIillau 
street to the brow of the river hill. At the southern terminus of this, on 
the east side of the avenue, is the place of Augustus Wessel. Mr. Wessel 
has within his inclosure six acres of land, which slope to the east and south, 
and run down quite to the brow of the hill which overhangs the upper part 
of the city. On this lot, well to the south, Mr. Wessel's residence, a large 
two-story edifice of blue limestone, was erected about six years ago. The 
building is stately and roomy. Inside it is finished richly with black walnut 
and pine, and throughout it is a dwelling of unusual completeness. In his 
location he has been singularly fortunate. It will be remembered that the 
rivei", three miles above the landing, begins to bear rapidly to the south. 
Mr. Wessel's location is at a point that enable him to take advantage of this 
change in the course of the river, and permits him to look dh-ectly up the 
stream for several miles. The prospect is as beautiful as if he were look- 
ing across a lake miles in ^idth, with the additional attraction of having 
the hills on either side flankins; the stream. The villaojes on both sides of 



146 SiAyhzoThs of CiThGiiuxcbt'i . 

the Ohio, as far up as the mouth of the Little Miami river, can be readily 
seen, though they are removed sufficiently to hide every undesirable feature,- 
and to reveal only the beautiful points of the landscape. On either side, 
the banks of the river swell into hills dotted Avith farm houses and dwell- 
ings, around which the fresh foliage of sjiring weaves its garlands, and the 
peculiar charms of each season of the year are displayed without stint. 
There is no unpleasant view. Take any window to the east, and you can 
sit liy the hour and watch passing boats, or follow the shadow of 
the clouds as they chase each other along the turbid surface of a stream 
at its flood, or are mirrored in the clear water when the freshet has 
subsided. Mr. Wessel has improved his grounds very handsomely. Nei- 
ther has he devoted himself exclusively to the ornamental ; for in his large 
yard he has fruit trees of various kinds, and a well-cared-fbr garden. 

Just below is the beautiful home of H. L. Kemper. Here the land 
declines in the direction of Cincinnati, affording an unusually fine view of 
the lower part of the city, and the cities of Newport and Covington, as well 
as the highlands upon the Kentucky side. At night this is one of the most 
delightful prospects along the river. 

Proceeding to the east, there are yet a number of large, comfortable resi- 
dences, with pleasant surroundings, including the Purcell mansion, south of 
McMillan street. On several short streets intersecting this street near its 
eastern terminus, is a little community of Germans that have gathered about 
the beautiful St. Francis' Church. They are principally on Kleine and 
Church streets, and are divided between Cincinnati and Woodburn. Their 
homes are neat and comfortable, and evidences of thrift are apjjarent on all 
sides. 

CHURCHES. 

Tlie oldest church, as has been intimated, is the First Presbyterian 
(late Old School). The present edifice was erected 'on McMillan street, 
east of the Montgomery road, in 1855, at a cost of thirteen thousand dol- 
lai'S. It is const. 'ucted of brick, with quoins of brown stone, and is a taste 



'Gblnubt Hzlls. 147 



fill cliurcli, to wliich a neat room for infant instruction has recently been 
added. The main room is open to the rafters, finished and furnished hand- 
somely, and will aceonunodate four hundred jiersons. 

Until the year 1868, the old stone church, l)uiU l)y the infant congrega- 
tion in 1818, was permitted to stand l)eside its more tasteful successor. It 
was a plain, unpretentious structure, around which such sacred recollections 
gathered that its friends hesitated to remove it. But, it is decreed that the 
things of this world, when they cease to be useful, are to be taken 
away or hurried out of sight, for the purpose, perhaps, that we may not, in 
the discharge of the grave duties of life, cling tenaciously to the past rather 
than press forward to untrodden paths and keep steadily m view that other 
"house, not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." 

On the site of the old church, or perhaps a little in the rear of it, the 
congregation, in 1868, erected a parsonage. It is a tw^o-story brick edifice, 
exceedingly tasteful in its finish and surroundings, and creditable to all con- 
cerned. 

Next in age is Lane Seminary Church (late Xew School Presbyterian), 
organized about the year 1832. This, early, was composed largely of per- 
sons connected with the Seminary, and grew out of the causes that finally 
led to the division of the Presliyterian Church. This society worships in 
the chapel of Lane Seminary. The chapel, under a contract with the 
trustees of the Seminary, w^as remodeled by the societj' four years ago, at a 
cost of ten thousand dollars. The lecture room is handsome and spacious. 
The main audience room is well furnished, lighted, and ventilated, and will 
comfortably seat five hundred persons. The pastor, the Rev. G. H. Ful- 
lerton, was installed three years ago. The communicants number about 
one hundred and sixty, and the average attendance at the Sabbath-school is 
one hundred and fifty scholars. 

The ]\[ethodist Episcopal Church, on Kemper lane, is a thrifty organiza- 
tion, that ha~! largely increased in numbers during the past two years. It 
now numbers in membership two hundred and fifty-five, and the accommo- 
dations the small edifice furnishes are entirely unequal to the wants of the 



148 Szchzci^hs of GinGinncLti . 

congregation. The matter of erecting a new building has been agitated for 
some months, and hberal subscriptions have been secured for this purj^ose. 
In April, 1870, a lot one hundred and fifteen feet front by two hundred 
and twenty feet in depth was purchased, on the south-east corner of McjVIil- 
lan and Ashland streets. For this the congregation paid eleven thousand 
five hundred dollars, or at the rate of one hundred dollars per foot. There 
is little doubt that, in a comparatively short time, Walnut Hills will rejoice 
in another addition to her church edifices, and one, too, concerning which 
she may cherish pride. The pastor of the church is the Eev. C. A. 
Brooke. The Sabbath-school, in charge of John C. Brooke, averages alwut 
two hundred and twenty-five scholars. 

The Church of the Advent (Episcopal), on Kemper lane, built four 
years ago of the blue limestone of these hills, is a very handsome building. 
It is cruciform, with chancel and tower, and was erected at a cost of about 
thirty thousand dollars. The rector is the Rev. Peter Tinsley. There are 
connected with this parish one hundred and fifty communicants. The Sab- . 
bath-school numbers one hundred and fifty scholars, and is in charge of 
John Cinnamon. 

The Baptists, during the past four years, have had service irregularly, 
but have had no pastor and own no place of worship. 

There is a colored congregation of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and 
a colored Baptist congregation, each one having a comfortable house of 
worship that is equal to present wants, and upon which there is no indebt- 
edness. 

The Catholics have a church, called St. Francis', on the boundary line 
between Cincinnati and Woodburn. It is a stone edifice of very consider- 
able beauty and architectural grace. Its membership comes principally 
from the German population. 

A new Catholic church is projected, to be erected on McMillan street, 
two squares west of the Montgomery road. 



cblri-ut Hzlls. 149 



PUBLIC SCHOOL. 

The public school of AVahuit Hills is wortliy of special conimoiulution. 
The number of scholars enrolled in the Twenty-second ward is about seven 
hundred, while the average daily attendance will reach six hundred. The 
school is under the superintendence of G. W. Nj-e, who is aided by twelve 
assistant teachers, besides a teacher each of German and music. The com- 
modious school building, to which valuable additions have been made dur- 
ing the past two years, is situated on INIontgomery road, between INlciNIillan 
street and the Seminary grounds. 



APPROACHES AND OTHER MATTERS. 

The principal approach to Walnut Hills is by way of Hunt street and 
the Lebanon and Montgomery turnpikes. This, for years, has been a great 
thoroughfare, not only being the route by which the inhabitants of the 
three suburbs of Walnut Hills, Woodburn, and East Walnut Hills, have 
reached the city, but one of the important channels through which the 
intercourse has been conducted between Cincinnati and a remote district of 
great extent to the north-east. The travel upon it has been immense, and 
must contmue so until improvements now making shall relieve it. The 
road is well macadamized. For a distance of seven-tenths of a mile south 
of jMc^Iillan street, it is curbed and guttered on both sides, and curbed and 
guttered on the west side two-fifths of a mile beyond Abigail street. A 
sidewalk extends along the roadside the whole distance. 

Another route to this jJace is by way of Kemper lane, a macadamized 
street, wliich has come into public notice within a comparatively few yeai's. 
This approaches Front street from the hills by a somewhat tortuous course, 
and intersects that street about one mile above the Little oNIiami railroad 
depot. Along this street has been constructed for pedestrians a plank walk 
four feet wide. By this it is one thousand yards, or a little more than a 



150 SuyhiLi'^hs of Oi'TLGiiznOytz. 

half mile, from the street railroad to Windsor street at its intersection with 
Kemper lane. This is the economical and democratic way to get to AVal- 
nut Hills, for you have a six-cent ride of about two miles on the street 
railway, and then a half-mile tug on foot, where prince and beggar alike 
rely on muscle. 

Still farther on is the stairway constructed up the hillside opposite 
Hackberry strest in Woolburn. This is principally of stone, about one- 
third of a mile in length, and is entirsly practicable to the pedestrian who 
has courage enoiigh to undertake it. 

These, at present, are the approaches to Walnut Hill^, 'But they are 
all insignificant in importance compared with an improvement already 
begun, known as Gilbert avenue. This is to be a grand avenue along the 
hillside east of Deercreek, from a point oj^posite Court street, to the inter- 
section of the IMontgomery and Madisonville roads in Walnut Hills. It is 
to be one hundred feet wide, of an easy and uniform grade. It is proposed 
to set curbs, pave gutters, and macadamize the road, after which it will be 
covered with gravel. This thoroughfare will run at about the same altitude 
as the Lebanon and Montgomery road^, and nearly parallel with the Deer- 
creek valley road. Much of the work of extending Court street to Accom- 
modation street has already been performed, and considerable grading at 
either end of the route has been done. The work has not progressed with 
a speed commensurate with its importance, but it seems probable that 
it will be prosecuted hereafter with more vigor. The work is one of great 
consequence, both to Cincinnati and to the suburbs lying to the north-east. 
When finished, it will be one of the finest outlets the city will have, and 
besides, will l)e a desirable route for a street railway to Eden Park and 
Walnut Hills, the construction of which will hardly be delayed long beyond 
the completion of the avenue. 

Lebanon and Montgomery roads, Kemper lane, and McMillan street, and 
one or two adjacent streets, are lighted by gasoline lamps, which, it 
is thought, will be supplanted by gas some time durhig the present year. 



cblniMt Hills. 151 



Park and Grandview avenues, will also, doubtless, have gas as early as 
their neighbors, and other streets will very soon thereafter be supplied. 

A house for a steam fire-engine is alretidy in process of erection on 
McMillan street, west of the Presbyterian church. Its completion will be 
signaled by the presence of an engine adapted to the wants of that locality. 

Under the terms of annexation, water mains are to be extended to this 
locality as early as practicable. It will thus be seen that Avhat is known as 
Walnut Hills will very soon have all the materid advantages of the city. 
That the change which has been effected will increase population, .•stimulate 
improvement, and promote the general prosperity, can not be (questioned. 



EDEN PARK. 

Closely related to Walnut Hills is Eden Park, which must have an 
important bearing upon the future of this part of the city. Cincinnati has 
three park^ within her limits that are creditable — one of them, indeed, dis- 
tinguished for it^ beauty — but they are all small. The desirableness of 
procuring lands for an ultimate breathing spot for our population had been 
a source of anxiety to the more reflecting citizens here for many years. 
Various plans had been suggested, but nothing was definitely done in this 
direction until December 6, 1865, when the city iturchased of Joscpli Long- 
worth, executor of Nicholas Longworth, wliat was tlien known as the Gar- 
den of Eden. This embraced one hundred and fifty-.<ix acres of the higli- 
land^ lying between Deercreek valley and the Ohio river, and between 
Mount Adams and Walnut Hills. The price agreed u})on for these lands' 
was three thousand dollars per acre. On the 9th of January, 186(>, the 
necDssary paj)ers were executed, and a work was inaugurated that was des- 
tined to furnish Cincinnati a p.\rk, which, for beauty of situation and for 
variety of attractive features, will certainly not have its superior in any 
cmntry. This tract was purchased for the inunediate purpose of construct- 
ing here an innnense reservoir, from which to supply the city with water ; 
but public attention was soon turned to the importance of early u>ing 



152 SuhzoThs of CiriG'iTiTiGbt'b. 

this opportunity of furnishing the city a park approximating m size the 
wants of the peojile. 

Preparations were soon made for the commencement of work npon the 
reservoir. Two years ago, matters had taken such a shape that the 
improvement of the ground for park purposes had commenced. On the 
8th day of January, 1869, the city council, by a vote of thirty-one to six, 
adopted a resokition authorizing the purchase of additional lands, embracing 
twelve acres belonging to Washington McLean, for which one hundred and 
twenty-five thousand dollars were paid ; four and one-fourth acres of Joseph 
Whittaker, for one hundred thousand dollars ; and nineteen acres of the 
estate of Nicholas Longworth, for which the city was to pay an annual 
ground rent of fifty-five hundred dollars. The jDurchase of six acres from 
John Bates was also authorized, which, added to the remainder of the pur- 
chases, and to the six acres of the work-house lot, made two hundred and 
three and a quarter acres, thus increasing the area of the park about thhiy- 
three per cent. 

During the past year a great deal of work has been done on the grounds, 
and the wonderful beauty of the place is becoming more and more apparent 
as the plans for its improvement are developed. The main approach is 
from the intersection of the Lebanon and Montgomery roads, by an avenue 
one hundred feet wide, to Gilbert avenue. This leads directly to the jjark, 
which is entered by a broad avenue that at once introduces the visitor to 
the extraordinary beauties of the place. Another approach is from Kem- 
per lane, along Nassau street, which was opened and improved in the year 
1869 from Kemper lane to Gilbert avenue; thence by Glade (formerly 
Fulton) avenue, a newly-improved street, leading directly from Nassau 
street to the northern entrance of the park. As soon as the upper end of 
Gilbert avenue is completed, the park can be reached from that direction 
along the same streets by which it is now approached from Kemper lane. 

Still another approach is from the intersection of Kemper lane with Nas- 
sau street directly across to the plateau. This, however, is temporary, the 
commissioners having projected a road from Park avenue to the j)lateau, 



'alniLt Hills. 153 



crossing Kemper lane over a bridge fifty feet above that street. This will 
be the main entrance from the east, and will lead to two avenues now bein^r 
constructed — one along the river side of the park, and the other skirting a 
depression that passes through that part of the grounds. Tliere will be at 
least four main avenue through the grounds, part of which have idready 
been completed. They are broad streets that have been well macadamized 
and then covered with gravel, smoothness being thus added to solidity. 

The avenues pass through the grounds in the most advantageous manner. 
When it is remembered that these lands are over three hundred feet above 
the river and lower parts of the cit}', the reader need not be informed that 
the prospect in all directions is such as can be procured from few eleva- 
tions rising in the midst of a city. The river ; the miles of distant hills 
extending along the Kentucky side of the stream ; the less remote high 
lands of Ohio, rollmg away in multitudinous Avaves of improved lands ; the 
suburbs of the city to the north and east, and the city at the foot of the 
liill, teeming with its busy thousands, make up a prospect so rare that it 
may be said the park, for location, hardly has its peer. The avenues 
meander by graceful curves through the grounds, at every turn shutting 
out something the visitor has just seen, but revealing another landscape 
filled with new beauties. 

Allusion has been made to the great reservoir constructing here, from 
which the larger })art of the city, by the year 1871, AviU be supplied with 
water. Tliis much-needed work, that will so increase the facilities of the 
waterworks as to enable them to furnish the whole city with water free 
from the nuid and other foreign matter which now renders it turbid during 
much of the year, will also bring additional charms to the park. It will 
embrace about fourteen acres, and will have a capacity of one hundred mil- 
lion gallons, or about twenty times the capacity of the old reservoir. It 
will be divided into two compartments, so that when it is desirable to 
remove the Avater from one, the other will be able to continue the supply to 
the city. lu the construction of this work advantage has been taken of the 
configuration of the lands, so that all sides of the reservoir save that next 
11 



154 B'bih'LLThs of C-bnai-nncbt^ . 

the Ohio river, will be suj)portecl by natural banks. The retaining wall, 
which has been thrown across the depression to make the basin, is about 
seven hundred feet in length and one hundred and nine feet in hight 
from the lowest foundations. At the base this piece of masonry is forty- 
seven feet thick, and at the top wide enough to allow the construction of 
a carriage drive twenty feet in width. The reservoir wUl be rendered 
water-tight by a lining of concrete one foot in thickness, composed of 
broken stone, gravel, sand, and cement. When filled, the water in the 
reservoir will be twenty -five feet in depth. Running under the reservoir 
will be six sewers, ranging in diameter from two to six feet each, that 
will not only serve to carry off the surface water of the park, but 
will also be so arranged as to receive the water of the reservoir when it 
may become necessary to entirely remove the contents from one or the other 
of the compartments. The influent pipe, forty inches in diameter, will be 
taken up Martin street, and will empty the Avater into the bottom of the 
reservoir on the north-east side of the basin. The water will be taken from 
the top of the reservoir, on the south-west side, two hundred and thirty- 
three feet above the Ohio river, and will be conducted through an effluent 
pipe, thirty inches in diameter, along Martin street. Another pipe, forty 
inches in diameter, will ultimately be laid to Hmit street, either through a 
tunnel or a cut made in the hill for this purpose. 

This reservoir is intended to supply all the city north of Fourth street, 
while the old one will furnish the remainder, in each case the water 
being pure. A carriage way will pass entirely around it, and the whole 
will add greatly to the beauty of the place. The work of engineering 
from the first, both for the reservoirs and the pai'k, has been under the 
direction of Henry Earnshaw, hydraulic engineer of the waterworks, 
aided by Joseph Earnshaw, his assistant. The Park Commissioners are 
Truman B. Handy, (Jharles F. Wilstach, and Jacob Elsas. 

The improvements of the grounds are entirely in charge of A. Strauch, 
Superintendent of Parks, who has so distinguished himself in the manage- 
ment and adornment of Spring Grove Cemetery. 



aulnubt Hills. 155 



The importance of this work to Cincinnati can hardly be over-estimated. 
Besides developing contiguous territory and bringing large additions upon 
the grand duplicate for taxation, it doubtless Avill become one of the grand- 
est parks in any country, and one of the most popular resorts. Such being 
the case, it must have an important bearing upon the growth and ])ros})er- 
ity of Walnut Hills, with which it is so intimately connected. 

The rapid increase in the value of real estate on AYalnut Hills and 
vicinity has been alluded to as this chapter progressed. There has been a 
steady advance in price, justified by the great changes which the jjast three 
years have accomplished. During this period, which has been the transi- 
tion state of this place from the incorporated vUlage to the city. Walnut 
Hills has been rising in public estimation. Many buUdings have l)een 
erected, and the growth of the place has been steady and healthful. Every 
where there have been indications of progress. The increase in the number 
of dwelling houses has been noticeable. Not a few of this class are 
inexpensive structures. They are, however, comfortable and neat. They 
are the homes of the mechanic and the laborer. They do not belong to the 
rich, but the occupants repi'esent the toiling thousands from whom the 
riches of the world primarily proceed. The presence of so many of the 
humbler class of dwellings in our suburbs admonishes the landlords below 
that the day of exorbitant rent^ will soon be past ; that since the hill has 
been fairly attained, Hamilton county is open fn- settlement. It is the 
murmur of api>roaching population — the prelude to important changes 
which are to occur in the distribution of our population. 



W'p'QS^^H]^- 



^6WN THE preceding chapter, the early history of Wahiut Hills was 
*^1' traced with sufficient particularity to render unnecessary an extended 
§n^ notice of the circumstances under which the colonies of this place 
^{3 have been established. 

The reader has seen how Walnut Hills, early famous as the seat of Lane 
Seminaiy, attracted population that gathered first in the \dcinity of the 
school, and then gradually settled upon the locations to the east, until that 
entire district became a suburb of the city. 

Among those who early sought the more remote places was Josiah Law- 
rence, a well-known merchant of Cincinnati, who, about thirty years ago, 
purchased a farm of one hundred and ten acres on the Madison\T[lle road, 
some four miles from the present court-house in Cincinnati. These lands 
he improved handsomely, and upon them erected a fine residence. 

Not far from the same time, the Hon. Timothy Walker, Gabriel Tiche- 
nor, and John Baker, all now dead, came out and settled u]Don the same 
road, made valuable improvements, and removed their families. Joseph 
Longworth sought a location still farther to the east, going into Spencer 
township. iNIr. Lawrence, however, remained on this place but a few 
years, when he sold his beautiful country home for twenty thousand dollars 
to PhUip Grandin, an old citizen of Cincinnati, Avho at once removed to it 
and continued there until his death. 



OodJDUiTTl. 15' 



This was au early period in suburban life, and there were then comjiara- 
tively few faces that were turned to the hills and the country retreats which 
invited them to theii- comfort and repose. But one after another followed 
these pioneers, until tliis locality, embracing an indefinite territoiy, became 
known as East Walnut Hills, in contradistinction to that immediately sur- 
rounding the Seminary, and lying between it and Cincinnati, which was 
called simply Walnut Hills. The former embi'aced the larger part of sec- 
tion two in jNIillcreek tcjwnship, and section thirty-tAvo in Spencer township, 
lying contiguous to and immediately east of the former, besides fractions of 
sections adjacent to the latter. Up to Avithin a j^eriod of four years, the 
people of this district depended upon the toAvnship avithorities for their gOA'- 
ernment and protection. 

But A^aluable private improA'emenfe had been made, population Avas 
increasing, streets needed to be improA'ed, sidcAvalks constructed, and a 
police provided, and the matter of organizing a part of East Walnut Hills 
into an incorporated village began to be agitated. Of course there Avas 
some opposition ; to advance in general in such enterprises, is to travel up 
hill and to surmount obstacles. Finally, the matter reached the courts and 
came up for legal adjudication, resulting at last in the success of those desir- 
ing the incorporation. The movement commenced in 1864, and AAas con- 
summated early in the spring of 1866. As untold embarrassments are 
generally met by the parents AA'ho seek a name good enough for the first- 
born of the family, so considerable trouble was encountered in getting a name 
that Avas good enough for the ncAV village. Several Avere proposed; the 
subject Avas thoroughly canvassed, and it Avas eventually determined to call 
the ncAV place Woodburn. 

It embraces about a section of land — perhaps a A'ery little more — taking 
in all of section tAVO in JNIillcreek tOAvnship, save a triangular bit on the 
south, that has been appropriated by Cincinnati. In addition to this, it has 
seized upon the north-east part of section eight, immediately Avest of it, 
taking out an irregular tract equal to about one-sixth of the section. It 
will be obserA-^ed, hoAvever, tliat this comprises only part of Avhat was 



158 S-buhiiTlDs of OiixGinrhCbti . 

known as East Walnut Hills, about the same extent of territory yet 
remaining due east of Woodburn, that is still called by the former name. 
First, we have Walnut Hills ; then, immediately east, Woodburn ; then, 
east of the latter, East Walnut Hills. It is necessary to be thus particular 
because many persons have an incorrect idea of the relative position of 
these places. The village is two miles north-east of the court-house, and is 
almost due east from Camp Washington. The Ohio approaches the main 
part of Cincinnati from the north-east, the northern shore opposite Wood- 
burn being nearly as far north as the northern boundary of Mount Auburn. 
Thus it can be seen how it is that the southern boundary of the village 
is less than a half mile from the river. The principal improvements of 
Woodburn are adjacent to the Madison viUe turnpike, which strilces the vil- 
lage a short distance from its south-western boundary, and runs nearly 
north-east until it has passed about one-fourth the distance from the south- 
ern to the northern boundary ; thence, making an obtuse angle, it continues 
on through the village, running a few degrees north of east. From the 
angle alluded to, emanates the Durrell and Rusk road, now Woodburn 
avenue, running thence to the Montgomery turnpike, which, after passing- 
through Walnut Hills, winds through the north-western part of Woodburn. 
This avenue, though an old road, has not until recently attracted particular 
attention. Near it'^ junction with the IMadisonville road is the residence of 
Henry B. Meyer, a substantial structure, upon four and a half acres of 
ground, all of which was purchased, three years ago, of Charles B. Foote, 
for twenty-five thousand dollars. Along this avenue, two years ago, a tract 
of land, in from two to three acre lots, was sold by Isaac Chase, at prices 
ranging from three thousand to four thousand dollars per acre. On these 
lots seven houses have been erected, that cost from four to eight thousand 
dollars each. On the west side of the avenue, lands belonging to the estate 
of Susan Elston were sold in small lots, three years ago, at auction, at from 
four thousand to eight thousand dollars per acre. At the end of the ave- 
nue Daniel Armel, an old resident of this locality, erected, in 1868, a 
tasteful two-story brick residence. This avenue, which is destined in a short 



oodLhubTTi. 159 



time to present a very different and much-improved appearance, is about 
four-fifths of a mile in length, and was, three years ago, graded and macad- 
amized. A street, which will be a continuation of Chapel street on Wal- 
nut Hills, running through to the Elston lands, from west to east, and 
intersecting Woodburn avenue, has been authorized, and, as has been stated 
elsewhere, will soon be opened, by which that part of Woodbm-n will be 
brought into immediate communication with the northern part of Walnut 
Hills. 

East of the avenue, running parallel with it, is the extension of Hack- 
berry street, already well built from the corj)oration line, on the south, to 
the jMadisonvOle turnpike. This is opened to within a thousand feet of the 
Montgomery pike on the north, and has been Avell macadamized, besides 
being supplied with a good sidewalk. 

On this street, about eight years ago, Alex. Todd, Esq. , erected a lirick 
dwelling, which, with the lot of four acres upon which it stands, was worth 
at that time ten thousand dollars. Four yeai's ago it sold for double this 
amount, which was considered by many persons an exorbitant sum ; yet the 
purchaser has since been oflfered twenty-five thousand dollars. 

Leaving Hackberry street, and passing to the east on the INIadisonville 
turnpike, one first reaches the improvements that have recently been made. 
These consist of a two-story brick store and dwelling, ])ut uj) In' ]Mr. Bode- 
ker ; a In-ick dwelling of two stories, tasteful and atti'active, erected l)y 
Joseph Seifert ; and a two-story fi'ame building, built by J. Gassmeyar, and 
occupied by ^Vliss Beiiman for her private pi'imary scliool. 

A little farther to the west, the visitor turns into the ample grounds of 
the Hon. George Hoadly. Here, on about nine acres of land, well covei'ed 
with fruit trees, e-pecially the pear, of which he has an unusually large 
variety, the Judge erected, about ten years ago, of undressed blue lime- 
stone, a substantial two-story structure, that presents a pleasant appearance 
fi'oni the road, and commands a fine view of the river to the rear. 

Immediately adjoining him on the east is the two-story frame residence 
of Jeptha G. Miller, with grounds of about five acres, and, like all the 



i 



16Cr- S'm'b'LLT'bs of CznGznncLtz . 

places upon the brow of the hill in this locality, commanding a fine view of 
the Ohio. 

Next is the home of Samuel B. Keys, a handsome two-story brick edi- 
fice, Avith tower, erected in 1853 ujDon a ti-act of about eight acres, the sit- 
uation and surroundings of which are very attractive. 

Next, proceeding eastwardly, are the more spacious grounds belonging to 
the estate of the late John Baker, which are laid out in an exceedingly 
tasteful manner — not, in this respect, having their superior in the village. 
Like the residences generally on either side of the road, the buildings are well 
back from the thoroughfare, and immediately north of the point where the 
land begins to break in the direction of the river. The building was erected 
in 1853, of brick, two stories in hight, with a variety about the architecture 
that is unusually pleasing. To the east a broad, airy veranda extends the 
full width of the building, and looks out upon the thick forest trees and the 
river uj^on the one hand, and the spacious and ornamented grounds upon 
the other. 

Immediately adjoining the Baker property, without any thing to mark 
the line of demarcation, are the premises of William Hooper. Here, on 
twenty-three acres of land, the larger jmrt of which cost him, in 1861, 
about one thousand dollars per acre, jNIr. Hooper erected, in the following 
year, a costly residence. The material is brick, with quoins of brown 
stone. The building is one hundred feet front by forty-five feet in depth, 
with complete French roof and tower. The length, which would otherwise 
impair its beauty, is entirely reheved by wings which are slightly retired, 
the space on the west of the center being quite filled by a veranda, the roof 
of which is supported by slender pillars terminating in arches. On the 
.-outh of the center of the building is a broad, airy veranda, looking out 
upon the grassy slope that declines in the direction of the river, and from 
which the splendid panorama to the south can be perpetually enjoyed. The 
drawing room, forty-five by twenty-five feet, terminates on the south in a 
bay window, consisting of three large plates of French glass, the relation of 
each to the other being such that the landscape seen through either is 



oocLh-bLTTi. 161 



entirely distinct. The house inside is finished with white wahiiit, while 
the handsomely-tinted walls and the frescoed ceilings are fresh from the 
hand of one of the best artists. The latter, in the drawing room, has not 
its superior in any of the pubhc or private rooms of the county. The 
building fronts upon the spacious grounds, covered w ith a heavy growth of 
forest trees, and is approached from the north along a circular di-ive and 
through a 'poHe cochere. 

The location is one of the most picturesque upon the river, and from it is 
constantly enjoyed a landscape of the rarest interest. Below is the valley, 
with its beautiflil stone church, supj^ortuig the sacred emblem of the Chris- 
tian foith ; beyond, the distant Kentucky hills, with villages nestled at their 
feet ; to the west, the lower parts of Cincinnati and the dim outlines of the 
suspension bridge; above, the villages of Pendleton and Columbia, with 
the adjacent valleys and distant highlands ; and, more beautiful than all, 
the river, like a sUver crescent burnished by the sun, reflecting in sharp out- 
lines the adjacent shores. Then, each hour there is something new. Boats 
come and go, pass and repass, revealing their fretted wakes by day, and 
gleaming with hundreds of lights by night. It is a panoi-amic spectacle 
Avhich will not allow the interest of the beholder to abate, and to A\hich 
he wUl return, always to find some change that contributes to his enjoy- 
ment. 

The last improvement on the south of the road, before passing the eastern 
limits of the village, is that of Edmund Dexter, consisting of about eight 
acres of land, and a fine brick dwelling, buUt in 1852, by Samuel W. 
Pomeroy. 

On the north side of the road, nearly opposite the property of Mr. Dex- 
ter is the residence of ^Irs. Perkins, widow of the late Rev. J. H. Perkins, 
built about twenty years ago, by Charles W. Elliott, who at that time had 
here a horticultural garden. The grounds, six acres in extent, decline 
slightly to the northward, and are the seat of the school of Dr. IS'athan E. 
Soule, of which more will be said elsewhere. 

Dr. Charles Woodward, imnjediately to the west, has four acres, upon 



162 SzihziThs of C^nozriTiajti . 

which he has erected a frame dwelling of two stories, that is one of the very 
few whose owner has had the courage and good rural taste to paint white. 
Peering through the green foliage, the pure white is in pleasant contrast 
Avith all its surroundings. 

Next is the property of twelve acres belonging to the estate of the late 
Hon. Timothy Walker. The house is of blue limestone, irregular, but not 
unpleasant in its outline, two stories, roomy and substantial, and is reached 
by a circular drive through a grove of fruit and shade trees. Uj)on the 
undulating lands to the rear, and immediately around the house, are trees 
of the native forest, that give the place an air of rural quiet, from which 
one turns away with regret. Upon this property, near the turnpike, Mrs. 
"Walker has recently erected a neat two-story frame dwelling, now occupied 
by Seth Thompson. 

Following the road to the west, the A'isitor next enters the premises of 
W. W. Scarborough ; and as he j)asses up the circular drive, enjoying the 
shade of the grand old forest trees that have been spared from the wood- 
man's ax, and notices the well-filled conservatory, the cultivated garden, the 
fruit trees, the spacious brick stables and complete appointments about the 
premises, he will not have to be told that this forty-acre tract is owned by a 
gentleman of singularly good taste. The dwelling is a spacious brick edi- 
fice, erected in 1853, with an open veranda that looks out upon diversified 
grounds, and with convenient interior arrangements and elegant finish and 
appointments. These premises have a diflferent kind of beauty from tho e 
upon the Ohio. There is no river view, but there are; no reminders that 
you are in a busy, fretful world. The lands sweep away to the north, and 
farms and villages upon distant highlands are revealed. It is a delightful 
rural home, where perfect retirement is procured, and where an air of 
rejiose, like a good genius, seems everywhere to reign. 

Immediately adjoining Mr. Scarlwrough's, on the west, is the home of 
Charles Dexter — ten acres of land, and a dwelling partly of wood, but 
mainly of undressed blue limestone. Six years ago this property was pur- 
chased for twenty thousan 1 dollars. Two years afterward it was sold for 



'oodhiMTn. 163 



thirty thousand dollars, having increased fifty per cent, in value in that 
period. 

The next, and last of importance, upon this side of the road that has not 
been enumerated, is that of Joshua H. Bates. The premises embrace 
twelve acres of land, upon which, at a considerable distance from the road, 
is a two-story frame residence, with Mansard roof, and veranda on the 
south the full length of the building. The premises are attractive, the 
drives well constructed and neatly kept, and all the surrouuduigs indicative 
of cultui-e and taste. 

Though the improvements along Forest avenue are not, in ftict, a part of 
AVoodburn, being within the corporate limits of Cincinnati, still they legiti- 
mately belong to the former, and ought, at least in general terms, to be 
alluded to in this connection. Forest avenue begins at Walnut Hills and 
descends the elevation peculiar to this locality, skirting the hill upon the 
one side, and yet by no means getting down upon the level of the railroad 
upon the other until reaching Torrence road, east of Mr. Hooper's. The 
first valuable improvement to the right is that of the Hon. J. C. ColHns, a 
new two-story edifice of blue limestone, occupying a prominent position 
and presenting an appearance both elegant and imposing. Near his own, 
but farther to the east, the Judge has erected a sightly frame dwelling of 
two stories. 

Between these premises and those upon the east, a street is now construct- 
ing from Forest avenue through to Front street on the south, and, when 
completed, it is proposed to extend this through to the Madisonville tui-n- 
pike. There appears to be a natural opening in the hills for the latter 
improvement. This would add another way of approach from Cincinnati, 
as well as from points above, besides affording the citizens of Woodburn 
direct communication with both the Little jNliami railroad and the street 
cars. ' 

Beyond the new street, to wliich allusion has been made, is the dwelling 
of Rev. W. Van Vleck, a new frame edifice, erected amid a profusion of for- 
est trees, upon an elevated point of land that looks down upon the river 



164 SzohiMThs of OinGirLTzciti. 

upon the one side, and the avenue upon the other. Mr.Van Vleck has also 
recently built two handsome frame dwellings of two stories, with Mansard 
roof, a short distance from his own residence. Of these, the one next the 
city has been purchased by A, B. Merriam ; the other by Mrs. Charles 
Davenport. 

On the north side of Forest avenue, are the residences of Mrs. Howard 
Matthews and Charles Matthews, both of them frame edifices, pleasantly 
located upon the slope, and surrounded by shrubbery and shade trees. 

At the north-east corner of Hackberry street and Forest avenue, princi- 
pally w'ithin the limits of Woodburn, are the premises of Joseph Kleine, 
u]Don which there is a good brick residence, occupied by the owner, besides 
several pretty brick dwellings adjacent, which were built for tenants. 

Here, too, on the east side of Hackberry street, Frederick Kleine has 
erected a handsome two-story residence. The house, which inclines to the 
Norman in its architecture, is finished with ample verandas and other con- 
veniences and adornments. 

On Hackberry street and Forest avenue, George H. UphofF, within the 
past two years, has put up a tasteful two-story brick dwelling of unusually 
good proportions. On the west side of Hackberry street there have been 
erected also, of late, a number of very comfortable dwellings, some of which 
are, indeed, quite tasteful. 

On the Montgomery pike, which runs north-easterly through the north- 
western part of the village, are the lands, sixty acres in extent, of Samuel 
Beresford, upon which he erected a roomy and attractive residence two 
years ago. 

The Mathers homestead, and that of William Durrell, on the same road, 
are both buildings that have been erected many years. The mansion house 
of Charles Hewitt, on the one hand, and the one originally erected by Sam- 
uel Beresford on the other, though of less age, were t lilt before emigration 
had turned in this direction. 

On the left of the Madisonville pike, as it approaches from the south, and 
before its intersection with Woodburn avenue, Francis B. Williams, ten 



oodhuLTTi. 165 



years ago, erected upon his twenty-acre tract, an excellent two-story brick 
residence that cost about fifteen thousand dollars. 

Adjoinmg the place of Mr. "Williams, on the west, are the splendid flower 
gardens and nursery of Jo.^eph S. Cook, well known as one of the leading 
floral establishments of the country. 

CHURCHES, SCHOOLS, AND STREETS. 

Near the south-western boundary of the village, on Hackberry street, is 
St. Francis' Church, a beautiful stone edifice, belonging to the German 
Catholics. It was originally erected about twenty-five years ago, and has 
been materially enlarged and improved within the last twelve years. It is 
attended exclusively by Germans, who have a settlement about the church 
of neat homes and pleasant surroundings, and who are distinguished for 
their earnestness in the encouragement of every thing that has for its object 
the peace and good government of the community. 

There is no Protestant church within the corporate limits. It is 
claimed there are in Walnut Hills edifices quite sufficient to accommo- 
date the three villages, and, too, that these are so convenient that at j)resent 
the necessity does not exist for additional facilities of this kind. This may 
all be quite true ; still, one can not but feel, in passing through these beau- 
tiful grounds, that additional church spires would add much to the beauty 
of the place, and would give the locality an increased charm to persons 
seeking homes in the country, besides afl^ording the citizens of both Wood- 
burn and East Walnut Hills an opportunity of attending church and Sab- 
bath-school without being compelled always to call their cai-riages into 
requisition. 

There are at present four schools in thevillage, with a prospect of the 
fifth. The classical school of Dr. Nathan Soule, for boys, in which special 
attention is given to fitting them for college, has been in operation about 
four years, and is one of the best of the kind in the West. The accommo- 
dations are sufficient only for about twenty scholars, and are by no means 
equal to the high character of the institution. 



166 BiLhiLTlDs of Oiixoinncbti . 

There is also the well-managed public school, in charge of A. G. Weath- 
erby, with one assistant, held in a good two-story brick edifice on Wood- 
burn avenue. 

In addition to these is the primary school of Miss Alice Beaman, with 
good accommodations for about sixteen scholars. 

The fourth school is connected with St. Francis' Church, and is attended 
by many children of this suburb. 

The Madisonville turnpike, which is the main avenue, is owned by 
gentlemen interested in property along the road, who expend the profits 
derived therefrom in keeping the thoroughfare in admirable repair. Side- 
walks have been constructed through the village along the entire I'oute, so 
that this has become a beautiful avenue. Allusion has already been made 
to the street improvements on Woodburn avenue and those in progress on 
Hackberry street, and in a preceding chapter to Columbia avenue, which is 
to become a grand outlet for the city in this direction. 

The approaches to Woodburn are the same as those to East AValnut 
Hills. At present the great route is by way of Hunt street and the jNIont- 
gomery and Madisonville turnpikes. The completion of Gilbert avenue 
will be of no less advantage to Woodburn than to Walnut Hills, and will, 
with Columbia aveuue, give ample facilities for reaching tliis dehghtful 
suburb. Omnibuses run every hour during the day to Woodburn from the 
corner of Sycamore and Fifth streets, and to this public ficility for reaching 
the place a street railroad will doubtless be constructed soon after the com- 
pletion of Gilbert avenue. 

The following are the municipal officers f )r 1870 : 

Mayor — Joshua H. Bates. 

Council — Hon. George Hoadly, Richard IVIathers, J. H. Over- 
beck, B. H. BoDEKER, James Bell, George Elston. 

Clerk — John B. Enneking. 

Treasurer — Lambert Heemann. 

Marshal — Thom a s Conway. 



(:-0.i^(:LU|3j.p>( 



I 



ko/jlj HE preceding chapters embrace descriptions of some of the most 
important suburbs of Cincinnati, and all that were immediately 
contemplated when this Avork was projected. But the list is by 
no means exhausted. Indeed, numerically, far more remain than 
have been noticed. It is not within the compass of this volume to enter 
into a detailed history and description of any other place ; yet there are 
many other localities about Cincinnati that, on account of their historical 
importance or future prospects, should not be joassed without at least a notice. 



Colunibia. 

Among this number is the village of Columbia, which, for histoi'ical inter- 
est, scarcely has its superior in the state. It is situated on the Ohio rivei-, 
about four miles east of Main street, in Cincinnati, and one mile below the 
mouth of the Little ^Mianii river. Here was made the second settlemen.t 
in Ohio ; and on one of the graceful knolls was erected Avhat is claimed to 
have been the first Protestijnt house of worship in the Xorth-west territory. 
Just above the site of the present village of Columl)ia the hills open, and 
through one of the most charming valleys that our country atlbrds, the 
Little Miami approaches the Ohio from the north. This beautiful location, 
U3w teeming with well-cultivated fields and valuable improvements, and 



168 SibhiLThs of CinGinnciti. 

musical with the passage of great railroad trains, was discovered by Captain 
Benjamin Stites, while in pursuit of a party of Indians who had stolen 
horses near Maysville, Kentucky. Eemembering the beauty of the place, 
he determined to seelc a location here ; and in November, 1788, in company 
with from twenty to twenty-five others, landed near the mouth of the 
Little Miami. 

The church to which reference has been made w'as first organized at the 
residence of Benjamin Davis, under the direction of the Rev. Stephen 
Gano, on the 20th day of January, 1790. Two years thereafter they 
began the erection of a house of worship, which was completed in 1793. 
Attending public service in these days was not walking upon roses and 
drowsing upon velvet cushions in peace and security. Able-bodied men 
carried their arms, and sentinels watched hostile Indians while the services 
proceeded. 

This may be considered the germ of Cincinnati ; for, not\\ith standing it 
soon lost its relative position after the location of the to^ni opposite the Lick- 
ing river, it preceded the latter in settlement. It seems a beautiful thought, 
that among the earliest acts of those who were to lay the foundations of the 
future community was the formation of a church, under whose benign influ- 
ences the infant settlement was to be fostered. 

But space will not allow us to linger about this spot, where the early pio- 
neers wrestled with the disadvantages and dangers of frontier experience, 
surrendering life in some instances while in defense of their ncAV homes, 
and in other cases going into Indian captivity, wdiich was scarcely less 
shocking. These times have passed away, Columbia Avas not destined to 
be the Queen City, though permitted finally to become one of her beautiful 
waiting-maids. The old church is gone, and the stones that entered into 
its foundations have become a part of the beautiful Baptist church which 
has recently been erected. The voices of those early days are heard no 
more, but all remembrancers ai-e not blotted out. The old graveyard, 
which was adjacent to the church, is yet well preserved, with its tombstones 
dating back to a generation that saw this country a wilderness, and the old 



J 



Oonolijusion. 169 



fSpencer log-house still stands, tlie real mansion of a distinguished pioneer. 
Would that we could believe it might escape the vandalism that in this 
country every where forgets the ancient landmarks. 

Columbia has now about a thousand inhabitants ; and though for a long 
time it seemed to have gone into a perpetual sleep, it has recently aroased, 
and during the past four years has made great advances toward a first-class 
suburban position. Good schools are in operation. Two tasteful churches 
have been erected, and the thiixl is now building. 

Columbia avenue, to which allusion has been elsewhere made, is in 
process of construction from the city to this place. Above the village rises 
Mount Tusculum, for the improvement of which Joseph Longworth has 
recently been expending a large sum of money. Over three hundred acres 
of superb highlands have been intersected by a graded drive — Undercliff 
avenue — four miles in length, that Avinds advantageously through the lands, 
bringing them at once into market, and really making this one of the most 
desirable locations about the city. These lands, which command extensive 
views along the course of the Ohio and up the beautifid valley of the 
Miami, have been laid out in lots of from three to ten acres, many of which 
have been purchased by prominent business men of the city, who contem- 
plate the erection of residences during the approaching season. 

Columbia, besides being on the Little IMiami railroad, four miles from 
the city depot, has also the advantages of the Pendleton street railway, 
which connects the corner of Fourth and Walnut streets, in Cincinnati, 
with the village. Aside from Cummins\alle, there is no remote subui'b 
about Cincinnati that has the pubHc facilities for reaching it that Columliia 
enjoys. 

Cumminsville. 

Little less interesting than Columbia in its early history, is the localitv 

that has since become the town of Cumminsville. Figuring in the early 

liistory of Cincinnati was one who, though well known to the pioneers of 

the ]Miami valley, has not the place in the mind of the young that he 

12 



170 SijuhtOThs of 0^7^G^rb7^cbt^. 

deserves, in consideration of the prominent part he took in laying the 
foundations of Cincinnati and the adjacent cities of Hamihon and Dayton, 
and of his sterling public and private virtues. This was Colonel Israel Lud- 
low, one of the three proprietors of the city — the man who, in the fall of 
1789, commenced the survey of the town of Cincinnati. In 1787, Colonel 
Ludlow had been charged by the Surveyor General of the United States 
with the survey of a large tract of land which the New Jersey Society had 
contracted to purchase. Delays incident to the slender resources of the 
military establishment of that day prevented the completion of this task for 
some years thereafter, but, in 1792, Colonel Ludlow wrote to the Secretary 
of the Treasury, stating he had the satisfaction of presenting the survey of 
the Ohio and a part of the Miami purchase. The discharge of these public 
duties gave him opportunities of examining the country with reference to its 
future settlement that were diligently and very judiciously used. In 1790, 
on the present site of the village of Cumminsville, was established Ludlow 
Station, which was the nearest secure military pcjst north of Fort AVashing- 
ton, at Cincinnati. Here, immediately in front of the site of the future 
dwelling of Colonel Ludlow, and the one now occupied by his descendants, 
a block-house was erected. When the Cincinnati, Hamilton and Dayton 
railroad was constructed, the site of this fortitication was in the line of the 
road, and in the cut there made the last vestige of this outpost of Cincin- 
nati in early times was destroyed. Here, in 1791, the army of General St. 
Clair encamped, on its way to the overwhelming defeat it encountered in 
the subsequent fall. This, truly, is historic ground. It was a place of 
favorite resort with the Indians, who, on these beautiful slopes, now peace- 
fiU enough, have at night thrown themselves to sleep, or, perchance, in 
affected slumber, to devise new schemes of rapine, plunder, and violence 
upon those who might be caught away from the camps in the thick woods 
that then covered all these lands. 

At this place Colonel Ludlow secured a large tract of land and estab- 
lished his home. His lauds embraced what are now Spring Grove Cemetery, 
a part of Clifton, and the town of Cumminsville. In 1804 Colonel Lud- 



OonGliMsion. 171 

low died, his lands descending to his family that survived him, James C. 
Ludlow, his son, finally succeeding to the part upon which the block-house 
was erected. After the death of Colonel Ludlow, the house was occupied 
by General Mansfield for a number of years, Init the family ultimately 
returned to the place, and have remained there, with a slight intermission, 
until the present time. In view of the active part Colonel Ludlow took in 
the settlement of this locality, it seems strange the name was not so asso- 
ciated with the place that it might perpetually remind its pojJuLition of 
the one who, amid this wilderness, had first built a home and given civiliza- 
tion a foothold. 

After the death of Israel Ludlow, decades passed before a movement was 
made toward building a town. In 1882, preaching was done in a log 
school-house. In the locality, about this time, the Rev. David Fergus, of 
the Presbyterian Church of Scotland, the Rev. Walter Scott, of the Chris- 
tian Church, and the Rev. David Root, of the Second Presbyterian Church 
of Cincinnati, occasionally preached. James C. Ludlow, m 1832, built a 
house to be used in the interest of education, literature, and religion, called 
the "Hall of Free Discussion." The house was the oflfering of a liberal 
heart, who would have a place where love to God and humanity to man 
might alike be taught. Mr. Ludlow died in 1841, his fjimily remainino- 
upon the estate. 

With the exception of a tavern, tan yard, grocery, and a few scattering 
houses, there was nothing approximating a town until about the time of the 
establishment of a postofiice, named Cumminsville, from David Cummins, 
wlio kept a tavern at this place, which occurred in 1844. Prior to this the 
place was known by many as Ludlow Station. Some spoke of it as the Tan- 
yard, while not a few, from the unruly persons who occasionally disturbed 
the peace of the neighborhood, gave it a less euphonious name. 

In 1845 Ephraim Knowlton, the first postmaster, laid out part of his farm 
in lots. This subdivL-ion extended from Millcreek to the west of the Cole- 
rain pike, and from the street south of the present Millcreek House to 
Hofi'ner street. In 1850, Jacob Hofi'uer laid out in lots about twenty 



172 BuybiLThs of Oi^^cunTicLti. 

acres of his farm, extending from Hoffner street to Blue Rock street. Sub- 
sequently, Timothy Kirby, on the north-west, and Mrs. Janet Langland, 
the daughter of the Rev. David Fergus, on the north, laid out small tracts, 
as did also the executors of the estate of James C. Ludlow, on the east of 
the Hoffner and Langland sul^divisions. The representatives of the estate 
of Elmore Williams also laid out lots south of the Knowlton subdivision. 

About six years after the establishment of the postoffice, Mr. Hoffner 
conveyed for a mere nominal price, it being more a gift than a sale, eleven 
acres of land for the use of the Catholic orphan asylum, on which both a 
large asvlum and church have since been erected. 

]Mrs. Janet Langland gave the ground for the Presbyterian church and 
the public school, while INIrs. Judge McLean, daughter of Israel Ludlow, 
donated the land upon which the Christian church has recently been 
erected. 

The village grew by steady accessions. It having for a long time been 
at the end of a drive favorable for the test of fast horses, and a sort of out- 
post of Cincinnati without the benefits of her police, the place did not in 
other years enjoy the reputation for peace that others have, but this was cer- 
tainly far more attributable to the visitation it was compelled to bear from the 
lawless of other places than to the character of its own jDopulation, among 
which have been numbered some of the most sterling families of Cincinnati's 
surroundings. With population has come a sjiirit of improvement and good 
order. The street railroad from the city to this place has increased the 
value of property, and other influences have combined to attract many per- 
sons to this locality as a place of residence. It has two public schools of 
the same grade and character as the Cincinnati schools. These are under 
the control of INI. S. Turrill, a teacher of twent}' years' standing in the 
community, who is assisted by a dozen subordinate teachers. Among the 
churches are one Presbyterian, one Methodist, one Christian (the latter a 
commodious and tasteful brick edifice, recently erected), one Protestant 
Episcopal, one German Lutheran, and one each of English and German 
Roman Catholic. The present population is about thirty-five hundred. 



CoTbGliLsion. 173 



A few years ago the name of the postoffice was changed to Ludlow, but 
the title had become a part of the place, and such efforts were made as 
secured the return of the original name, Avhich it will, no doubt, retain until 
it shall be lost by its incorporation with Cincinnati. 

The surroundings of Cumminsville are exceedingly picturesque. Though 
the place is in the valley of Millcreek, the lands on either side the stream 
swell into beautiful hills, whose sides are already dotted with tasteful dwell- 
ings, and whose summits are crowned with some of the most stately resi- 
dences that Cincinnati enterprise has erected. 



Kentucky Suburbs. 

These sketches would be incomplete without some allusion to the exten- 
sive suburbs that have grown up on the Kentucky side of the river, which 
legitimately belong to Cincinnati, and are as closely allied to her interests as 
if they were not separated by the Ohio river. 

Immediately opposite the city, and connected Avith it by a suspension 
bridge which has the longest span in the world, and which, for architectural 
beauty, scarcely has its peer, is the city of Covington, with a population of 
about thirty thousand. 

It made slow progress before the completion of the bridge, I)ut has of 
late been making rapid strides in population. Her taxable property is now 
about twelve millions of dollars, and her wealth constantly increasing. 
Her increase is prompted by many considerations, but in a very important 
manner by the light taxes of that side of the river. During tlie year 1869 
the total levy in the city of Covington, for state, county, and city, Avas but 
one dollar and ninety-five cents on the hundred dollars. 

The city has manifested of late years a very commendable spirit in its 
improvements. It has one mile and a half of street railway connecting it 
with Cincinnati, a public library of about five thousand volumes, and will 
soon enjoy the Holly Avater works, which are constructing at a cost of 



174 SuhziThs of OznGinncbti. 

three hundred thousand dollars. The city has a good system of public 
schools, under the control of the Rev. Dr. Hall. They have three large 
buildings devoted to school purposes, two of which were erected, respect- 
ively, in 1869 and 1870. Each of these is occupied by twelve teachers, 
and, besides, the system is completed with an excellent high school. The 
city is well supphed with churches, having two Presbyterian, six Methodist 
Episcopal, one Protestant Episcopal, three Baptist, one Christian, one Ger- 
man Lutheran, and Welsh and German congregations. There are in 
addition three Catholic churches, and the fourth erecting, which is to 
become the cathedral. It is supplied with five lodges of the Independent 
Order of Odd Fellows and eight different Masonic bodies. 

Covington is not a city of large business, yet it has two rolling mills, a 
large glass factory, and other manufactories. These, however, are not the 
distinguishing features of the place. The many quiet, tasteful dwellings 
along cool, well-shaded streets that commerce does not invade, commend 
the place in a manner that nothing else does. Very many of these resi- 
dences are owned and enjoyed by persons having business connections with 
Cincinnati. As an indication of the intimate relation the cities sustain to 
each other, it may be remarked that twelve thousand persons daily pass the 
suspension bridge. 

Below Covington, and contiguous to it, is Ludlow, a beautiful, retired 
village of about one thousand inhabitants. There are many very beautiful 
homes here, not a few of which are occupied by Cincinnatians. Indeed, so 
largely is the population a suburban one, that, during the day, it is said, the 
place is almost deserted by the gentlemen, who leave the control of affairs 
entirely to the gentler sex. The location is an attractive one ; and, besides 
the lands already occupied, there is plenty of room for expansion. Of late 
it has very rapidly improved. 

In the rear of Covington are highlands of rare beauty. Some of them 
are already occupied, but thousands of beautiful building sites yet remain 
that will at no distant day be occupied by costly residences. 

Hardly less interesting than Cincinnati in its early history, is the city 



ConGlubsioTh. 175 



of Newport. It dates back before the beginning of the present century'. 
The hind from Avhich the first pLat was made was owned by General James 
Taylor, whose family yet remain in possession of large tracts in this vicinit}'. 
It appears one hundred and eighty acres were surveyed and a plat made l»y 
John Roberts, for General Taylor, in the year 1795, it having been sur- 
veyed in an unsatisfactory manner two or three years preceding. 

An act of the general assembly of the commonwealth of Kentucky was 
then passed, in December, 1795, vesting the land in Thomas Kennedy, 
Washington Berry, Henry Brashear, Thomas Lindsey, Nathan Kelly, 
James McClure, and Daniel Duggan, as trustees. This was the commence- 
ment of the present city of Newport, now seventy-five years old. On the 
sixteenth day of jMay following, these trustees met at the house of Jacob 
Fowler and appointed James Taylor clerk. 

Seven years thereafter Congress confirmed the purchase of five acres and 
six poles of land for the purpose of erecting thereon an arsenal and other 
public buildings. This was the commencement of Newport Barracks, that 
has since become one of the most important interior military stations in 
the country. 

The growth of the place since that time has not been rapid, though 
during the years of 1868 and 1869, it received an im])etus from the pro- 
posed bridge over the Ohio river that has made it quite another city. This 
bridge, which is to span the Ohio river from the foot of Butler street in 
Cincinnati to Saratoga street in Newport, -will, it is believed, be completed 
by the first of January, 1871. Besides furnishing a railway track, it will 
be provided Avith two carriage and two foot ways. The importance of thl< 
improvement to aU the country in the vicinity of Newport can hardly be 
over-estimated. It will at once bring the city of Newport nearer the busi- 
ness of the latter than any suburb on the north l)ank of the stream. 

Of late, additions have been made to the })lace; many buildings have 
been erected, and a new phase put upon the whole face of things. In 186(5 
the popiUatiou was twelve thousand; in 1870 it is estimated at sixteen 
thousand. It contains among its churches three Methodist, one Protestant 



176 SzoTdzotTds of CzTzozTznciii. 

Episcopal, one Presbyterian, two Baptist, two Lutheran, one United 
Brethren, one German church, a Bethel church, besides the Rev. Mr. Jef- 
fries' independent Episcopal and three Catholic churches. The place has the 
complement of Masonic, Odd Fellows', and other lodges. There are two roll- 
ing mills, two blast furnaces, and other manufactories. It is not, how ever, its 
business that makes the city, but the large number of private residences, the 
owners of which are engaged, directly or indirectly, in the trade of Cin- 
cinnati. Such persons seek it because it is distinguished for quiet com- 
fort, pure air, and freedom from many inconveniences to which the 
inhabitants of every large city are subjected. 

Above Newport, and almost adjoining it on the east, the village of Belle- 
vue was laid out in 1866, by A. S. Berry. This new suburb now has 
about four hundred inhabitants, and is a village of much quiet beauty. 

East Newport, of less importance at present than Bellevue, was laid out 
by Mr. Berry in 1867. 

About one mile above Bellevue is the village of Dayton, now Avith a pop- 
ulation of somewhat over three thousand. Dayton was organized by an 
act of the general assembly in 1868, from the tANO villages of Jamestown, 
laid out in 1847 by James T. Berry, and Brooklyn, laid out by Walker & 
Winston, in 1849, the former being the more remote from Newport. The 
place has one each of Methodist, Baptist, Presbyterian, Lutheran, and 
Catholic churches. They boast of three good school-houses. A ferry 
crosses the Ohio regularly to the Seventeenth ward, and a project is on foot 
to build a street railway through Bellevue to Dayton as soon as the new 
bridge over the Ohio is completed. 

In the rear of Newport and the villages above this city are the highlands 
that rise from the valleys skirting the Ohio river into hills of considerable 
altitude, and sweep back into the interior for many miles. These high- 
lands, for private residences, have hardly been touched. East of the Alex- 
andria turnpike. Highland avenue has been opened and macadamized. A 
number of good residences have been here erected, and elsewhere, here and 
there, prominent business men of the city have built tasteful dwellings. 



Oonoluusion. Yl*] 



Those who have taken their position upon the liills look down from elevated 
places, from clear, pure air that never Avill be contaminated by the prox- 
imity of Cincinnati, ujion a city struggling in smoke and dust. One square 
mile after another is inviting the enterprise of suburl)an pioneers. It 
I'equires no prophet to discover that the time is by no means remote, when 
this whole district will blossom with improvements and become an important 
suburb of Cincinnati. 



Cincinnati, Hamilton and Dayton Railroad. 

In all practicable directions population is swelling out into the country 
villages. It is not that the population is being injuriously depleted in the 
city, but that it is running over and escaping from crowded rooms and nar- 
row dooryards to the fresh air that God promises the suburban resident. It 
is natural that this tide should follow the line of the railroads, for the men 
of moderate means and the poor must lean on public conveyances. 

On the Cincinnati, Hamilton and Dayton railroad this tide has been set- 
ting in and is rapidly increasing. 

First on this road is Brighton, formerly Ernst Station, two and one-half 
miles from the depot ; then Cumminsville, five miles from the Cincinnati 
depot, which has been described. 

Two miles farther out is Spring Grove, at the location of Spring Grove 
Cemetery, where a beautiful village has sprung up during the pa<t few- 
years. This is the home of Piatt Evans, who has resided here since the 
location of the cemetery. The postoffice is called AVinton Place, and 
there api)ears a desire on the part of the citizens that the suburb should be 
known by this name. 

Ten miles from the city, on the east side of the railroad, is Carthage, an 
old place of about one thousand inhabitants, that has not until recently 
attracted the attention of suburban seekers to the degree some places more 
remote have done. There are, however, many persons residing here who 



178 SuyhiOThs of CzTzozTzizcoti. 

are doing business in Cincinnati, and the number will steadily increase until 
it shall become a part of the city. It is the seat of Longview (lunatic) 
Asylum, a splendid edifice that stands on rising ground to the east of the 
road, in full view of passing trains. 

One mile north of Carthage is the village of Hartwell, the comely child 
of the Hamilton County Building Association, whose cheery face and brand 
new clothes are sure to attract attention and leave a favorable impression. 
It was laid out in 1868. A tasteful depot has been built, streets and ave- 
nues opened and improved, and more than two dozen beautiful dwellings 
erected, to bear testimony to the vigor and enterprise of the Association. 

Another mile farther out (twelve from the city) are Lockland and 
Wyoming. The former is an old place of about one thousand inhabitants, 
east of the railroad, on the Miami and Erie Canal, and well known on 
account of its manufactures. Within a few years it has attracted consider- 
able attention from citizens of Cincinnati seekuig locations outside the city. 

Adjoining it on the east is Eeading, which has also, during the past two 
years, l^een putting on a new face and awakening to the fact that the dis- 
tance between it and the city is very rapidly diminishing. 

Wyoming, on the west side of the railroad, and immediately opposite 
Lockland, is a beautiful suburb that was first laid out by Isaac Riddle. 
There have been here for many years several excellent dwellings, but it was 
only a few years ago that it began to attract the attention of Cincinnatians 
generally as a place of residence. It has now some elegant homes, and is 
a most promising suburban locahty. 

Midway between Lockland and Glendale, J. G. Olden is now engaged in 
laying out a village on the elevated lands east of the railroad. He has 
about fifty-two acres, that will be subdivided into lots of from one-half to 
three acres. 

Glendale, already described, is fifteen miles from Cincinnati. Elliston, 
named for John W. EUis, a small suburban locality, is seventeen miles 
from the city. Jones Station, so called for John D. Jones, the veteran 
merchant, a place of a few Cincinnati families, is nineteen miles from the 



OonGltLsion. 179 



city. Schenck's is twenty-three miles. Hamilton twenty-five miles out, and 
Middletown twelve miles beyond, are both cities of increasing population and 
wealth, and the home of many persons identified with Cincinnati. 

Little Mianii Railroad. 

On the Little ^liaini raih'oad are many places that have already come 
into prominent notice. Columbia, four miles from the city, has been 
alluded to. 

Linwood, six miles from the depot in Cincinnati, besides makmg some 
suburban pretensions, is the station for ]Mount Washington. The latter 
lies three miles to the east, on the highlands, from which the splendid land- 
scapes of that locality are constantly enjoyed. This is a beautiful suburb, 
with many tasteful dwellings, and the complement of churches and school- 
houses to which our suburban residents are now giving so much attention. 
Omnibuses from the village connect with a morning and an afternoon train. 

Red Bank, eight miles from the city, is a station, but can hardly be called 
a suburban place. 

Plaiuville, one mile fiirther out, is commg into public notice as a suburb, 
and is, ui addition, the station for Newtown, on the left bank of the Little 
Miami river. The latter is a place of about one thousand inhabitants, and 
is already the home of a number of Cincinnati families. 

Milford is on the left bank of the Miami, and has a i^pulation of about 
two thousand inhabitants. It is fourteen miles out, and of late years has 
taken a good rank among the many beautiful suburbs of the city. As an 
evidence of the character of its population, it may be stated that thirty 
thousand dollars have recently been expended in a ,- chool building. 

Camp Dennison, of historic fame, the child of the war, at the mention 
of whose name the hearts of thousands, who there received their first 
instruction in the manual of arms, will always beat with accelerated speed, 
is sixteen miles from the city. After the close of the war, the barracks, 
storehouses, hospitals, and dwellings, built by the government, passed into 



180 S-buhiLThs of CznGinncbti. 

the hands of private parties. These, with dwellings since erected, have 
made it a village of about four hundred inhabitants — among them a num- 
ber of persons engaged in business in Cincinnati. The name has recently 
been changed to Grand Valley ; but it will be a long time before the mem- 
bers of the armies it has sent out will learn to call it by any other name 
than that of Dennison, who, among the patriotic governors of the state, 
first stood the shock of the rebellion. 

Miamiville and Branch Hill are stations seventeen and twenty miles, 
respectively, from Cincinnati, both of which have suburban residents. 

Loveland is a well-known suburb of the city. It has a population of 
about one thousand, numbering among its inhabitants some of the most 
enterprising busine~s men of Cincinnati. It has Presbyterian and IMethod- 
ist Episcopal churches, and a Christian organization that contemplate-^ 
building an edifice. It is twenty-three miles from the Cincinnati depot, 
and has the double advantage of two railroads leading to the city. 

Foster's Crossing is twenty-seven miles from the city. This is the station 
for MainviUe, a place t\vo miles from the railroad, that is one of the pleas- 
antest villages in this part of Ohio. 

South Lebanon, thirty-two miles from Cincinnati, is the station for Leb- 
anon, a delightful small city, with which it is connected by omnibus. 

Morrow is thirty-six miles from the city. It is a place of about fifteen 
hundred inhabitants, surrounded by a picturesque country, and the home 
of several prominent citizens of Cincinnati, as well as some of the highest 
officials that have been connected wdth the Little Miami road. 



Indianapolis, Cincinnati and Lafayette Railroad. 

On the Indianapolis, Cincinnati and Lafayette railroad are a number of 
places that have come into public notice since the people have turned their 
faces to the country. Sedamsville, now in the Twenty-first ward, is three 
and one-half miles ft-om the Plum street depot, and has long been the 



Conolubsion. 181 



home of a number of Cincinnatians, who have here built comfortable resi- 
dences. 

Riverside is a beautiful locality, extending some distance along the Ohio 
river, and divided into three stations — Riverside, Southside, and Anderson's 
Ferry. The first-named is four miles from the city, and the entire village, 
now incorporated, is two and a half miles in length. It has many beautiful 
places. The bottoms, in the main, are favorable for improvement, and the 
hillsides afford situations upon which many Cincinnatians have already 
erected tasteful residences. It has also a handsome stone Protestant Episco- 
pal church, that has just been finished. 

Trautman's, eight miles from the Cmcinnati depot, is a small village. 

Delhi, nearly eleven miles from the city, is a suburb of considerable 
importance. It is immediately on the river ; has two or three churches a 
Masonic hall, and a number of tasteful residences. An effort has been 
made recently to change the name to Minneola, but it has met with serious 
opposition. 

Fifteen miles from the city is North Bend, the old home of General 
William Henry Harrison, once President (jf the United States. The 
old house yet stands ; and on a beautiful elevation the ashes of the at^ed 
hero repose, with httle to mark the place save a crumbUng brick tomb 
that disgraces the nation. In this locality the land has been sold m lots, 
generally to citizens of Cincinnati. 

After pa-^sing through a tunnel fifteen hundred feet in length, Cleves is 
reached, sixteen miles from tlie city. This viDage is improving rapidly. 
The later dwellings are of an excellent character. They have a Presb^-terian 
and a Methodist church, and a good public school. 

Valley Junction is nearly eighteen miles from the city. Here is the 
junction of the Indianapolis, Cincinnati and Lafiiyette with the Whitewater 
Valley railroad, and a place now of no suburban attractions, but one that 
is to soon have an improved ^\ater power. 

Hunt's Grove, nearly twenty miles from the city, is the great pic-nic 
ground of this railroad. 



182 SiJyhzoThs of CinGiriTzcLtz. 

Harrison, twenty-five miles out (Valley Division), is a town of manufac- 
turing importance, and has a considerable nucleus for a Cincinnati pojiu- 
lation. 

Lawrenceburg, the last place on the line of the road that can be consid- 
ered an outpost of Cincinnati, is the home of a number of Cincinnati busi- 
ness men, and in common with all towns within a reasonable radius, will 
each year attract greater attention. 



Marietta and Cincinnati Railroad, 

Since the completion of the Marietta and Cincinnati railroad from Love- 
land to the city, the locality through which it passes has attracted much 
attention from suburban seekers. 

The first place, going eastwardly, after the departure of the road from the 
Cincinnati, Hamilton and Dayton railroad, is Ludlow Grove, nine miles 
from the depot in the city, a subdivision made in 1869 upon which have 
been erected a few good dwellings and a school building. 

Avondale Station, eleven miles from the Cincinnati depot, is at the cross- 
ing of the Reading or Lebanon turnpike. Here is the St. Aloysius Orphan 
Asylum, but there is yet no suburban improvement nearer than the well- 
known village of this name, some distance to the southward. 

One mUe farther out is Norwood, on the Montgomery pike. Formerly 
this v.'as called Sharpsburg. In 1869 a valuable addition was laid out in 
large lots, and the avenues graded north of the old village. Since then the 
name of the postoffice has been changed to Norwood. 

Oakley, one mile east of Norwood, on the Madisonville turnpike, is about 
three years old, and is already a suburb of considerable importance. There 
have been subdivisions on both sides of the railroad, and about fifty good 
residences erected. 

Madisonville, prior to the completion of the railroad in 1866, was by no 
means a thrifty town, though a picturesque and attractive locality. Since 
then property has very much increased in value ; new houses have been 



Ooncilubsion. i§3 



erected, and a complete change has come over the place. It is fifteen miles 
from the city by rail, and is also on the ^Madisoiiville turnpike. 

Madeira, eighteen miles from Cincinnati, has grown up since the comple- 
tion of the railroad. The lands are high and l)eautiful, and the place more 
of a country neighborhood than a village. 

Montgomery station is twenty-one miles from the city and one mile and a 
half east of the old village of the same name. The country is handsome, 
and several houses have recently been erected. 

Three miles east is Symmes, formerly Polktown, a station on the Little 
Miami river, witli as yet few improvements of a suburban character. 

Twenty-six miles from the depot in Cincinnati is Loveland, the last sta- 
tion on the I\rarietta nnd Cincinnati railroad that can be called a suburban 
place. This has been spoken of under the head of the Little ^[iami rail- 
road, upon which it is also located. 

On all the roads named, commutation tickets are sold at reduced rates, 
and every facility is afibrded suburban residents by the respective railroads 
tliat the present population along the lines will justify. 



Ohio and Mississippi Railroad. 
This road thus far has not given any special encouragement to the devel- 
opment of suburban places, being content with its through travel. Law- 
rencebm-g and Aurora, both pleasant cities in Indiana, the former twenty- 
four miles from the city, and the latter twenty-eight miles, are on this road, 
and besides being places of considerable local importance, are also beginning 
to attract the attention of Cincinnatians who are seeking homes elsewhere. 
Between them and Cincinnati, trains on this road stop regularly only at 
Delhi, so that the sul)urban improvements derive little advantage from the 
proximity of the road. 



184 SUyhlLThs of CziXGZTlTZCLti. 



other Suburbs. 

But the railroads do not furnish all the suburban places. Several of the 
turnpike roads are already supplied with suburban homes for miles beyond 
the limits of the city. 

Camp Washington, midway between Cincinnati and Cumminsville, 
de],-ives its name from the camp of that name established here as a place of 
rendezvous for volunteers during the Mexican war. It is immediately on 
the street railway to Cumminsville, and is a suburb that not only possesses 
some expensive and tasteful residences, but is rapidly improving. 

Clifton Hights is a term applied to the beautifully-rolling lands that inter- 
vene between the famous suburb of Chfton and Cincinnati. Besides the 
surpassing natural beauty of the locality, there are some good dwellings 
erected here, and it requires no prophet to foresee a great future for the 
place. To the south-east, in the vicinity of McMillan street and Ohio 
avenue, the highlands have been designated Elmont, from the beautiful 
elms that once grew on these highlands. The place is now Avithin the city 
limits, and each year is becoming more thickly populated. 

The village of Pendleton, long known as a suburb in the east, but 
now within the corporate limits of Cincimiati, and St. Bernard, on the 
northern verge of Clifton, along the Carthage turnpike, are both to be 
enumerated in the surroundings of the Queen City. Sharonville, on the 
Lebanon turnpike ; Mount Pleasant (Mount Healthy postoffice), on the 
Cincinnati and Hamilton turnpike ; Springdale, on the Carthage, Spring- 
field and Hamilton turnpilce, with a convenient railroad connection at 
Glendale ; Pleasant Pidge, on the Montgomery turnpike ; Newtown, east 
of the city, and California, on the Ohio above the mouth of the Little 
Miami, are villages dependent upon local trade for their support, but they 
are intimately connected with the city, and, indeed, may without impro- 
priety be called her outposts. 



OoThGlubsioTh. 185 

The highlunds west of Millcrcek, from College Hill to the Ohio river, are 
alnio.'st a coutiiiuoiis siiburl). ]\r()unt Airy, wci^t of and adjacent to College 
Hill, is a locality noted for its altitude and picturesque surroundings. It 
lies both in Green and jNIillcreek townships, has a number of good resi- 
dences, a successful school, and is an incorporated village. 

Farther south, along the Harrison i)ike, is Fainuount, a well-known 
subiu'l), in which considerable improvement has been made during the 
past three years. All the indications point to this locality as being one 
that is to become a valuable part of Cincinnati. 

Adjoining Cheviot, on the east, is Westwood, embracing about four sec- 
tions of land in the south-eastern part of Green township. It was incorpo- 
rated in LS(i8. It already has a considerable population, and is rai)idly 
improving. A macadamized road, called Central avenue, is being con- 
structed from this village to Cumminsville. 

Cheviot, though less suburban than its neighbor, is not without Cincin- 
nati representatives. 

South of Fairmount, on the highlands west of the city, is a locality more 
sparsely settled than in some other directions from the city, but it is one of 
surpassing beauty, and has for many years been the homes of some of Cin- 
cinnati's most substantial citizens. Here are the villages of Mount Har- 
rison and St, Peter's. Barrsville, Forbusville, and Spring Garden are vil- 
lages adjacent to the I.iick Run turnpike — the latter, too, on the Cin- 
cinnati, Hamilton and Davton railroad. 

Perhaps, of all the surroundings of Cincinnati, no place has more native 
attractions than the highlands on the Warsaw turnpike, immediately west 
of the city. The residences here are not numerous, but some of them are 
among the best in the vicinity of Cincinnati. On the south side of the 
road Mrs. S. S. Boyle has recently finished a residence that, for value, stateli- 
ness, and completeness, hardly has its superior in our suburbs. North of 
the Warsaw road, on the hill, immediately ovei'looking the city, Willitun 
Howard Neff has a tasteful residence of blue limestone, erected since the 
war, in the midst of a n itive forest. Xear this place of rare attractions 
13 



186 BiLhiMi^/Ds of CzizGzixnoytz . 



Peter Rudolpli Neft' has just finished a large and expensive residence of 
bhie hmestone, heavily finished with freestone trimmings. The tasteful 
dwelling, combined with a location that overlooks the city and its suburbs, 
the river and distant hills, makes a home of rare attractions. 

But this catalogue must be concluded. It has been a source of regret to 
the author that the limits of this volume and the circumstances of the case 
have demanded so cursory a view of many of these localities, and the omission 
of scores of private improvements which might almost challenge comparison 
with the best. In whichever direction the beholder turns, he sees suburban 
places. The city is surrounded with hills that are already blossoming like 
the rose. Beautiful cottages, stately residences, and princely mansions, are 
springing up as by magic. Villages are midtiplying along the great thor- 
oughfares. Tasteful subvn-ban homes are each year, in increased numbers, 
skirting the waters of the Ohio or peering through the foliage that fringes 
the summits of the surrounding highlands. 

In all directions the city is moving on to conquest, the flower of her pop- 
ulation deployed as skirmishers, who steadily advance upon a country that 
little thinks or knows what powers of expansion and absorption belong to 
the cities of this country, and especially what a great future is in store for 
the beautiful surroundings of the Queen City. 



\ 









°o 









* ^"^ 









■ay ^i» • ^^ ^ •» V- •^ * 









* A^-^ 
^ -^^ %> 



•t) ^ TV 












0^ '^o * 

















V'' .. -^ "" ^° ^ " ^ 

, ^ ^*-*^^' -^^ ^-^ ^^< 







